The American Heart Association is bringing its Nation of Lifesavers mobile CPR unit to FIFA Fan Festivals in four U.S. host cities beginning June 10 through July 19, 2026, to teach Hands-Only CPR to thousands of soccer fans. The initiative, announced during National CPR and AED Week (June 1-7), addresses the more than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occurring annually in the United States, where immediate CPR can double or triple survival chances.
The mobile unit will appear at FIFA Fan Festivals in Atlanta, Dallas, and Philadelphia from June 10 to July 19, and at the New York New Jersey Fan Zone in the Bronx on June 13-14, as well as the Central Park Mini Pitch from June 10 through July 19. These festivals, part of the global soccer championship run by FIFA, are expected to draw thousands of international visitors. The American Heart Association is collaborating with FIFA Medical, the federation's health division, to integrate CPR training into the fan experience.
“By offering Hands-Only CPR instruction at FIFA Fan Festivals, thousands of people can join the Nation of Lifesavers and help more communities feel prepared to take action when every second counts,” said Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, in a news release. “More than half of people who experience cardiac arrest outside a hospital don’t receive CPR before emergency responders arrive. That’s why we are committed to ensuring more people are trained, confident, and ready to act.”
Hands-Only CPR, which involves calling 911 and pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest without rescue breaths, is effective for teens and adults in the first few minutes of a cardiac emergency. The Association, recognized by the Annenberg Public Policy Center as the most trusted public health information source after one's personal health care provider, aims to double cardiac arrest survival rates by 2030 through such initiatives.
FIFA Medical Director Andrew Massey emphasized the broader impact: “Soccer has a unique ability to unite communities across cultures and generations. By incorporating Hands-Only CPR training into the FIFA Fan Festival experience, fans can leave with more than memories from the tournament - they can leave with the confidence to help save a life during a cardiac emergency.”
Volunteer opportunities are available in select host cities for those interested in teaching CPR, with no prior medical experience required. Details and sign-up information are at heart.org/FIFAFanFestival. Volunteers must be 18 or older.
This marks the American Heart Association's first appearance at a FIFA event and its 10th at a major national sporting event, following appearances at Super Bowls, NFL Drafts, and the NBA All-Star Game. With nearly three-quarters of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occurring at home, learning Hands-Only CPR can help save a loved one. The Association encourages everyone to learn the skill at heart.org/nation.