Document Type
Article
Journal/Book Title/Conference
Journal of the Philosophy of Sport
Author ORCID Identifier
Francisco Javier López Frías https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7278-7656
Volume
53
Publisher
Routledge
Publication Date
4-9-2026
Journal Article Version
Accepted Manuscript
First Page
293
Last Page
309
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.
Abstract
In this article, we discuss the ongoing challenge of balancing player safety with the cultural significance of football. Recognizing that these tensions are likely to continue due to the sport’s importance in the United States, we critique the limitations of current paternalistic and anti-paternalistic approaches. A key shortcoming is their emphasis on individual autonomy, framing ethical discussions around this notion along with personal responsibility and informed consent. While these aspects are important, we argue that they neglect the systemic nature of risk and harm, as well as the responsibilities of sport governing bodies. Therefore, we propose an alternative, yet complementary, perspective that highlights the organizational duty of care. By drawing on concepts such as harm, vulnerability and fiduciary duties, we advocate for a shift towards emphasizing the care-related responsibilities that sport governing bodies owe to athletes. We conclude by underscoring the potential of this care-centric approach to transform discussions of dangerous sports within the philosophy of sport and related fields.
Recommended Citation
López Frías, F. J., & Torres, C. R. (2026). Dangerous sport and organizational responsibility: the case of football and the duty of care. Journal of the Philosophy of Sport, 53(2), 293–309.
Comments
This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis in Journal of the Philosophy of Sport, available online: https://doi.org/10.1080/00948705.2026.2634710.