Football is Medicine: Active Aging Through the Beautiful Game
June 18–19, 2026 | University of Iceland, Reykjavík
Join Us for a Groundbreaking Conference
We’re excited to invite scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to explore how football promotes physical, mental, and social health among senior players.
This two-day conference will examine the transformative power of the beautiful game in active aging through keynote presentations, thematic sessions, workshops, and panel discussions.
Conference Themes
Football Formats for Seniors
Walking football, football fitness, and adapted programs
Health Benefits & Research
Evidence-based insights on football participation across the lifespan
Community & Policy Integration
Building sustainable programs and frameworks
Education & Institutional Leadership
The role of universities and organizations in promoting football for health
Confirmed Speakers

Keynote: Dr. Peter Krustrup
Professor of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark / Chair, Football is Medicine Platform

Dr. Runa Sif Stefansdottir
Associate professor, Faculty of Health Promotion, Sport and Leisure Studies, University of Iceland

Rúnar Már Sverrisson
Chair, Walking Football and Football Fitness at FC Trottur

Valgeir Einarsson Mäntylä
Physiotherapist at Kjarni & FA Iceland

Dr. Milos Petrovic
Associate Professor & Head of Research Center for Sport and Health Sciences, University of Iceland

Dr. Gudberg K. Jonsson
Director, Social Science Research Institute & Human Behavior Laboratory, University of Iceland

Gunnar Jarl Jónsson
Referee Coach FA Iceland and UEFA Observer
Stay Connected
📧 Contact: senior@reycup.is
🔄 Updates: Check back regularly for program details and registration information

