What’s Actually Happening
- England (and Wales) have had matches where players either wore shirts without their names or removed the names at some point (typically after half-time). (https://www.englandfootball.com)
- These matches are being treated as special “Alzheimer’s Society International” fixtures. (https://www.englandfootball.com)
Why the Names Are Removed / Not Used
The removal of names is symbolic and part of a campaign to raise awareness for dementia (especially Alzheimer’s disease). The gesture is intended to illustrate memory loss, one of the hallmark symptoms of dementia — especially how sufferers may lose recognition of names, even of familiar people, including players. (https://www.englandfootball.com)
Other associated actions include:
- Supporting the Alzheimer’s Society in the UK via this special match status. (https://www.englandfootball.com)
- Afterwards, some shirts are auctioned to raise funds for dementia research. (https://www.englandfootball.com)
- Fans with dementia are involved in the walk-out (i.e. walking onto the pitch) to highlight the many faces of the disease. (ESPN.com)
How It’s Done in Practice
- Usually, in such matches, names are removed (or absent) only for the second half. (https://www.englandfootball.com)
- Players still have numbers on their shirts (so that they can be identified for referee, fans, etc.). (Sporting News)
Broader Context and Rules
- There are official regulations that allow names on shirts, but they also permit the competition or the association to decide otherwise. In many kit regulations, allowing or mandating names is optional. (media-faw-cymru.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com)
- England’s FA has an official partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society since 2021. It’s through this partnership that they have designated certain internationals as “Alzheimer’s Society Internationals” and instituted the nameless shirts campaign. (https://www.englandfootball.com)
Purpose and Message
- The main idea is raising awareness: to make people think about dementia, its symptoms, particularly memory loss, and to reduce stigma. (https://www.englandfootball.com)
- Also to encourage early diagnosis: by highlighting how memory loss affects people, the FA and Alzheimer’s Society hope to prompt people to seek medical advice if they or their loved ones notice symptoms. (https://www.englandfootball.com)
- And to raise funds: via auctioning the special shirts. (https://www.englandfootball.com)
Is This Permanent?
- No — it’s not permanent. It’s only for specific matches designated for this awareness campaign. Outside of these matches, kits with names are used as usual. (https://www.englandfootball.com)
- England and Wales players have occasionally donned shirts without names on the back during specific international matches. This practice is part of a broader initiative aimed at raising awareness for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Below is a detailed case study of this practice, focusing on the October 9, 2025, friendly match between England and Wales at Wembley Stadium.
Case Study: England vs. Wales – October 9, 2025
Context and Purpose
On October 9, 2025, England and Wales faced each other in a friendly match at Wembley Stadium, designated as an “Alzheimer’s Society International.” This event was part of the ongoing partnership between The Football Association (FA) and the Alzheimer’s Society, aiming to raise awareness about dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. A key feature of this initiative was the removal of players’ names from the back of their shirts during the second half of the match. (The Standard)
Symbolism of Nameless Shirts
The absence of names on the shirts symbolized memory loss, a hallmark symptom of dementia. By removing the identifiers, the campaign highlighted how individuals with dementia might forget even the names of their favorite football players. This gesture aimed to foster empathy and understanding among fans and to encourage conversations about dementia and its impact. (https://www.englandfootball.com)
Involvement of Fans with Dementia
In a poignant display of solidarity, 22 fans living with dementia were invited to walk out onto the pitch with the players before the match. These individuals replaced the usual child mascots, representing the many faces of dementia across the UK. Their participation underscored the message that dementia affects people from all walks of life and that support and awareness are crucial. (Alzheimer’s Society)
Auctioning of Shirts for Fundraising
After the match, the nameless shirts worn by the players were signed and auctioned to raise funds for dementia research. This initiative not only provided financial support for the Alzheimer’s Society but also kept the conversation about dementia alive among fans and the broader public. (https://www.englandfootball.com)
Historical Context and Precedents
The practice of removing names from shirts during matches dedicated to dementia awareness is not new. The first such instance occurred during a match against Switzerland in 2022, followed by a similar gesture in a friendly against Belgium in March 2024. These recurring actions have helped establish a recognizable and impactful symbol for the campaign. (The Sun)
Public and Institutional Response
Support from the Football Community
Mark Bullingham, CEO of The FA, emphasized the importance of the partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society, stating that the involvement of fans living with dementia in the match would ensure the message resonated more than ever. (Alzheimer’s Society)
Impact on Public Awareness
The initiative has garnered significant media attention, sparking discussions about dementia and its effects. By leveraging the popularity of football, the campaign has reached a wide audience, encouraging individuals to seek early diagnosis and support for dementia-related conditions. (Reuters)
Analysis and Impact
Effectiveness of the Nameless Shirts Gesture
The removal of names from players’ shirts serves as a powerful visual metaphor for the memory loss experienced by those with dementia. This simple yet profound act captures public attention and fosters empathy, making the issue more relatable and prompting action.
Broader Implications for Sports and Social Awareness
This initiative exemplifies how sports can be a platform for social change. By aligning with a cause like dementia awareness, football not only entertains but also educates and inspires its audience to engage with important societal issues.
Future Prospects
Given the success and positive reception of these events, it is likely that The FA and the Alzheimer’s Society will continue this partnership in future matches. The recurring nature of the nameless shirts gesture helps reinforce the message and maintain public interest in dementia awareness.