Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, and Wolves Foundation have announced a new partnership to raise awareness of rare diseases and support the Foundation’s disability football programme and Wolves Wishes initiative.
Through the partnership, Alexion’s support will help to expand inclusive football opportunities with Wolves Disability Football Club and create memorable experiences for fans through Wolves Wishes.
Rare diseases affect around 400 million people worldwide, which is more than cancer and HIV combined.2 In the UK, an estimated 3.5 million people live with a rare condition, with one in 17 expected to be affected during their lifetime.1 Despite this, awareness remains low, leading to average delays of over five years before an accurate diagnosis, and more than half of patients (56%) experience misdiagnosis.3
Wolves Disability FC has grown substantially in recent years, from a handful of players 12 years ago to a current squad of around 80, across eight pan-disability teams – three adult, three under-16 and two under-12. Players compete in the Staffordshire Ability Counts League, train weekly and regularly feature in fixtures at venues including St George’s Park. Wolves Wishes provides experiences for fans overcoming adversity, supporting others, or marking special milestones.
As part of the partnership, two short documentary films highlighting Wolves Disability FC and Wolves Wishes will be produced, with further activity planned for Rare Disease Day on 28 February 2026.
The partnership was launched at a special event, where 11 players and two coaches from the disability squad took part in a photoshoot at Molineux, with leading photographer Jack Thomas. See the photography attached.
