Impact of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 on LaLiga Players’ Physical Performance: Unveiling Insights Into External Load Patterns

Abstract

Background:

Tracking systems have revolutionized the analysis of physical demands in professional soccer. Monitoring external load parameters through global positioning systems is crucial for monitoring fatigue, technical-tactical factors, and preventing injuries, especially during disruptions such as COVID-19 and midseason tournaments.

Hypothesis:

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 would lead to significant changes in external load parameters among LaLiga players, either positively or negatively, when comparing pre- and post-tournament match performance.

Study Design:

Retrospective observational study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

External load metrics (ie, minutes of game, accelerations, decelerations, sprints, and high-speed running [HSR]) were analyzed to compare performance in 8 pre- versus postleague tournament matches in those soccer players who competed in FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. The sample consisted of players from the Spanish LaLiga elite soccer league who participated in the Qatar 2022 World Cup.

Results:

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 did not negatively impact external load variables. Post-tournament values showed improvements in (1) number and distance covered at HSR, (2) distance and number of sprints, (3) number of high-intensity actions performed, and (4) number and distance covered at high-intensity deceleration, without significant differences in total distance covered or maximal speed reached during matches.

Conclusion:

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 did not negatively affect the performance of Spanish LaLiga players. On the contrary, several external load metrics such as HSR, sprinting, accelerations, and decelerations showed improved performance post-tournament.

Clinical Relevance:

These results may help clarify the effects of future in-season league stoppages due to international competitions.