The first Ray Kennedy Cup, now called the Ray Kennedy Weekend, (an international football tournament for people with Parkinson's), was held in 2012 in Copenhagen, Denmark, founded by physiotherapist Finn Egeberg Nielsen to promote activity for Parkinson's patients.

While the tournaments are created for players with Parkinson’s, each team may include one player without Parkinson’s, as long as that person is 60 years or older. Alternatively, the team may include one player with another neurological condition that causes functional impairment (e.g., MS, ALS, stroke, CP), in which case there is no age requirement.

Absolutely. Entrance is free for all spectators throughout the weekend.

No. Many teams are community-based groups or informal football clubs specifically for people with Parkinson’s.

The Cup is traditional 7-a-side football with small safety adjustments. The Shield follows official Walking Football Association (WFA) rules.

The Ray Kennedy Cup is a 7-a-side tournament, while the Shield is a 6-a-side Walking Football tournament. There is no limit to how many players you can be on a team. However, there will be a maximum number of players per match. (usually 12 players).

The weekend typically welcomes around 250-350 participants, including players, staff, volunteers, and supporters.

Yes. Clubs may register multiple teams, each treated as an independent team with no special seeding or grouping.

Both! The tournaments have trophies, but the spirit of the weekend is friendship, joy, community, and healthy activity.

There are no medical staff present but there will be an AED and a first aid kit available at the venue.

Matches typically last between 10–15 minutes per half Can be adjusted depending on the capacity and scheduling.

Teams usually play multiple group-stage matches followed by placement games or finals. But it also depends on how many teams participating.

Yes, registration fee is 20 euro per person. As a host nation, you have the option to charge a registration fee per person. The fee may vary from year to year, but has a limit up to 30 euros per person. You can read more about registration fee in "How to become a host".

Registration information will be shared on our website and social media channels. Team coordinators can register once the system opens. You will also have the opportunity to register family, friends and supporters here. We expect to open registration on January 15th.

Lunch is provided on both Saturday and Sunday. And also a social dinner on Saturday evening for all teams, families, friends and suppoters who payed the registration fee.

There are many accommodation options in and around Aalborg. We have arranged a special deal with Comwell Hotel – Hvide Hus. Participants can use a discount code (provided after team registration) to get a reduced rate.

Transportation will be provided from the hotel, Comwell - Hvide Hus in Aalborg, or a nearby designated pick-up point. .

Yes! We welcome interest from European cities wishing to host future editions. Cities can contact the organizing committee for requirements, facility guidelines, and support. We aim to bring the event to as many countries as possible.