Sport
Football (Soccer)
Location
Spain
Diagnosed at Age
12
Key Achievements
- Career-long player at Real Madrid, winning 25+ trophies including multiple UEFA Champions League titles
- Represented Spain in the 2018 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2024
- Second-most decorated player in Real Madrid history (26 trophies)
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Nacho Fernández
Nacho (José Ignacio Fernández Iglesias) was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 12. At first, a doctor told him his "footballing days were over," which devastated him. Days later, a specialist insisted the opposite – that exercise was vital – and Nacho resumed playing.
He went on to spend over two decades at Real Madrid, winning numerous Champions League and domestic titles. Nacho has been open about his diabetes and is living proof that even at the highest level of world football, T1D is no barrier.
His career achievements include multiple UEFA Champions League titles and representing Spain in international competitions like the 2018 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2024. With 26 trophies, he is the second-most decorated player in Real Madrid history.
"I have no limitations... diabetes doesn't prevent me from doing anything."
Diabetes Management Approach
Nacho manages his diabetes while playing professional soccer at the highest level through careful monitoring of his blood sugar levels and adjusting his insulin dosage based on training and match schedules.
His approach emphasizes the importance of exercise in managing Type 1 diabetes, directly contradicting the initial advice he received that his football career was over. Nacho's success demonstrates that with proper management, diabetes doesn't have to limit athletic achievement.
Advice for Fellow Diabetic Athletes
Don't accept limitations placed on you by others who don't understand diabetes. Find healthcare providers who support your athletic ambitions and will work with you to develop management strategies that allow you to compete at your highest level.