FC Barcelona launches European mental‑health initiative

FC Barcelona and Fundació Barça unveiled a pioneering European mental‑health initiative on Thursday. The plan targets children, youth and adult athletes, placing mental health at the centre of emotional wellbeing and performance. The launch was held in the Auditori 1899 of Spotify Camp Nou.

President Rafa Yuste opened the ceremony and reaffirmed the club’s commitment to mental health. Yuste said the project reflects a holistic approach to athlete welfare.

Xavier Corbella, head of the club’s medical services, outlined how the programme will integrate psychological support with physical training. Corbella highlighted early‑intervention strategies for young players.

Marta Segú, general director of Fundació Barça, detailed the foundation’s role in providing educational workshops and funding research. Segú indicated that the partnership will broaden resources for mental‑health awareness among athletes.

The initiative is described as the first European‑wide plan of its kind, aiming to embed mental‑health considerations into everyday sport routines. It will supply tools for coaches, families and medical staff to monitor wellbeing.

Implementation will begin across Barcelona’s youth academy and senior squads later this year, with impact metrics scheduled for review. Organisers hope the model will encourage similar projects throughout Europe.