Wednesday, May 20, 2026

UEFA appoints Haleon as first medicine and health partner

UEFA has entered a multi-year scientific partnership with consumer health company Haleon, naming it the organisation’s first official partner in medicine and health. The collaboration centres on pain management in football and the ongoing development of medical standards.

Advancing evidence-based approaches to pain in football

The partnership is designed to combine UEFA’s know-how in football medicine and injury prevention with Haleon’s work in pain science and its links to healthcare professionals. The stated aim is to strengthen clinically grounded, evidence-based approaches to pain treatment in football and to support the evolution of relevant standards and guidance.

Beyond elite sport, the partners also want to contribute to clearer, science-based recommendations that can help physicians, medical teams and players across different levels of the game.

Education formats: webinars and digital modules

Planned activities include expert-led education initiatives such as webinars and digital learning modules. These are intended to support the integration of evidence-based pain management practices into day-to-day care across Europe, with a focus on football-related injuries.

Building on earlier research work

UEFA and Haleon have previously worked together on scientific research projects, including work related to the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in early pain management for sports injuries. The new partnership is set to build on these efforts and inform future guidance.

Background: UEFA medical activities and Haleon profile

UEFA’s medical department sets mandatory medical standards for UEFA competitions and supports education, knowledge exchange and research in football medicine. Haleon is a global consumer health company focused on everyday health and operates across multiple OTC categories, including pain relief.