19.10.2026 11:12
What the small tubes that star footballers such as Luka Modric and Anthony Gordon sniff before matches are for has become a matter of curiosity. Ammonia salts, which attract attention with their sharp smell and were used in the past to revive people who had fainted, are used by athletes to provide a brief feeling of alertness.
In European football, some star players draw attention by bringing small bottles or capsules close to their noses and sniffing them before matches. The players' grimacing during this process raises the question of what substance is being used.
These products are ammonia salts, known in English as smelling salts. Once used in fainting cases, these substances are now preferred by some athletes before competition to benefit from their short-term stimulant effect.
ITS PUNGENT ODOR CAUSES A SUDDEN REACTION
Ammonia salts release a pungent vapor containing ammonia when opened. Inhaling this vapor can irritate the nose and upper respiratory tract and trigger an involuntary breathing response. This irritating effect is also why athletes grimace immediately after sniffing the tube.
WHY DO FOOTBALLERS USE IT?
Some athletes believe ammonia salts make them feel more alert and ready before a match. These products may be used especially before moments requiring intense concentration.
However, it has not been scientifically established that ammonia salts significantly shorten reaction time, permanently increase concentration, or directly improve football performance.
IN THE PAST, IT WAS USED FOR PEOPLE WHO FAINTED
The history of ammonia salts goes back much further than the sports world. In the past, these substances were used to help people who had fainted regain consciousness.
Today, however, because ammonia vapor can irritate the respiratory tract, health experts emphasize that caution should be exercised regarding the use of such products. In particular, they should not be used in place of medical evaluation for athletes who have suffered head trauma or loss of consciousness.
NOT SAFE FOR EVERY ATHLETE
Although ammonia salts are used by some athletes, they are not risk-free products. Their pungent vapors can cause irritation in the eyes, nose, and respiratory tract.
Moreover, the widespread use of these products does not mean they are recommended by all club doctors or that their performance-enhancing effects have been proven.