Quick sniff, big question: Why smelling salts are popping up in soccer

Soccer players aren’t usually known for dramatic pregame rituals. But a strange trend is creeping into the locker rooms of top teams. Instead of sipping water or doing light stretches, some players are pulling out small black tubes, cracking them open, and taking a sharp inhale of a pungent white powder. The aftermath? A quick burst of alertness—almost like a mental espresso shot. This habit didn’t start on the soccer field. It’s been a staple in football locker rooms and powerlifting gyms for decades. Players swear by them as a way to feel instantly “switched on. ” Soccer hasn’t escaped this wave either. Stars from leagues like the Premier League and even the US national team have been caught on camera doing it before games. The World Cup is no exception—players might show up with these inhalants in their pockets. So what’s really in these things? Most are just ammonia-based mixtures packed into tiny bottles or capsules. When sniffed, they irritate the nose and lungs, forcing a sudden gasp and spike in alertness. Back in the day, doctors used them to wake up people who fainted. Now? They’ve been repurposed by athletes hunting for a quick edge.But here’s the catch: science says they don’t actually boost performance. The buzz fades fast, leaving only a temporary feeling of readiness. That’s why experts call their benefits mostly psychological. The real problem? They might hide signs of injury. A player with a concussion could seem wide awake after using them, masking a serious risk. Health concerns don’t stop there. Frequent use can irritate airways, trigger allergies, or even cause burns inside the nose. For people with asthma, it’s especially risky. The FDA has even warned against over-the-counter inhalants sold for “alertness, ” citing side effects like seizures and fainting. The NFL has already banned team-provided smelling salts, citing safety and concussion risks. Soccer’s governing bodies haven’t followed yet. Some argue the sport’s demands—long matches, constant movement, and sharp decision-making—don’t need a chemical jolt. Others say it’s just a personal habit, harmless if used once in a while. Still, experts suggest better ways to get ready. Sleep, diet, and mental drills prepare athletes far more than a chemical rush. If a player relies on smelling salts, it might signal a gap in their routine—not a need for more stimulation.