UWS welcomed world-leading sports scientists from across the globe to Ibrox and Celtic Park this week, to tackle some of football’s most pressing challenges. 

The World Congress of Science and Soccer (WCSS), which took place between 17-20 June, brought together more than 250 worldwide experts to discuss important issues in soccer, from cardiac health of elite players to talent identification and science and medicine in football.

Organised and hosted by UWS, speakers and themes at the congress included:

  • Professor Franco Impellizzeri from the University of Technology in Sydney, an expert in sports and exercise science and medicine, with a focus on applied sport science and orthopaedics,
  • Professor Peter Krustrup from the University of Southern Denmark, who specialises in the fitness and health effects of football, and is also a UEFA pro-licenced coach,
  • Dr Katrine Okholm Kryger from St Mary’s University in London, who specialises in sports rehabilitation and sports medicine,
  • Professor Vish Unnithan, Professor of Paediatric Sports Science at University of the West of Scotland, will discuss positive adaptations of the heart of highly-trained youth soccer players,
  • Rob Cooper, a consultant cardiologist at Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, with a specialist interest in sports cardiology, amongst others. 

Vish Unnithan, Professor of Paediatric Sports Science at University of the West of Scotland and Chair of WCSS in Glasgow, said: “We were so excited to host the 2025 World Congress on Science and Soccer here in Glasgow, which brought together experts, researchers, and practitioners to delve into key areas of soccer science and professional practice. 

Embracing the overarching motto ‘Encourage Progress, Enhance Practice,’ the congress aimed to serve as a catalyst for overcoming barriers and promoting the core values of sport – teamwork, fair play, equality, and inclusion – as drivers of research, innovation, and sustainable development in soccer. 

Professor Vish Unnithan, UWS

“We were delighted to welcome delegates from all over the world to collaborate, share insights, and drive innovation aimed at enhancing health and performance in soccer, worldwide. It’s not often that academic conference venues are linked directly to their subject, and I know that delegates from across the globe were thrilled to attend a conference hosted at two of the most iconic stadia in the world: Ibrox and Celtic Park.”