People living with dementia are mascots for ‘Alzheimer’s Society International’ football match
People living with dementia walked out alongside the England and Wales men’s football teams for the friendly the two countries played at Wembley on 9 October 2025.
Named the ‘Alzheimer’s Society International’, this fixture is the fourth of its kind since a partnership was established between the Alzheimer’s Society and The Football Association (English FA) in 2021.
The initiative also included Wales players returning to the pitch after half-time without their names on their shirts, aiming to highlight memory loss as a symptom of dementia.
Andy Paul, who is living with Alzheimer’s disease and was one of the mascots, says:
“I didn’t think at my age I’d ever do something like this, and I was absolutely overwhelmed when I heard the news. I’m going to cherish this opportunity; to have my family there watching and to share the moment with them will be incredibly special. I also hope it will show people that dementia isn’t necessarily what you might expect, and that being diagnosed doesn’t mean you suddenly stop doing the things you love.”
Noel Mooney, Chief Executive of the Football Association of Wales, says:
“By walking out with fans living with dementia, we send a clear message that nobody should face dementia alone. It takes a united team, on and off the pitch, to provide the care, compassion and understanding needed to support those affected by this condition.”
You can find out more here: https://www.englandfootball.com/articles/2025/Sep/30/alzheimers-society-international-england-v-wales-mascots-with-dementia-20253009