Celtic European Cup winner reveals Alzheimer’s diagnosis

SportsHealth & Fitness
21 May 2026 • 8:29 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Celtic European Cup winner reveals Alzheimer’s diagnosis

  • Celtic legend Jim Craig, a revered member of the club’s iconic 1967 European Cup-winning squad, has publicly revealed his diagnosis with Alzheimer’s disease.
  • The 83-year-old, who is one of only three surviving 'Lisbon Lions', received the diagnosis for the irreversible brain disorder in 2022.
  • Craig expressed frustration with the diagnosis, noting that while his old football and family memories remain intact, he struggles with recent, modern events.
  • Despite the known link between heading heavy footballs and brain conditions in former players, Craig remains unconvinced that his own situation is directly connected to his playing career.
  • His wife, Elisabeth, added that people have been very understanding and caring since the diagnosis became known, and they are managing the condition.

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