Arkema Première Ligue clubs race to match men’s medical standards | OneFootball

France’s women’s top flight has rapidly upgraded medical care, propelled by federation pressure and new funding. According to L'Équipe, the Arkema Première Ligue is approaching men’s benchmarks for infrastructure and staffing.

The LFFP, launched in April 2024, offers four development labels worth about €250,000 per year each. Requirements rise from a club-licence baseline, a doctor at least 10 hours weekly plus a part-time physio, to a label needing one doctor and two full-time physios.

FFF medical chief Emmanuel Orhant calls the change dramatic in three years, with some clubs employing up to four physios, plus psychology, nutrition and podiatry, and hydrotherapy widespread. Care is logged in the Askamon app, with sanctions for non-compliance as in the men’s game.

Injury patterns mirror elite levels, with more muscular, especially quadriceps, and joint issues, and newly promoted Nantes, Lens and OM investing to match men’s structures.

Lyon exemplify the shift, and Strasbourg have added a dedicated grass pitch, reducing joint trauma. Permanent facilities at Soprema Parc are advancing with backing from BlueCo.

Strasbourg fast-track diagnosis with on-site ultrasounds, saving two or three days, and 24-hour MRIs. Pre-season isokinetic and jump tests target hip-related risks to cut hamstring and groin injuries. Physio Anaïs Frey is full-time with added support next season, and expanded recovery tech is in place.

Blood-flow restriction is being introduced, while Orhant views reathletisation as the next major challenge and Nilles urges in-house mental preparation, which could also help the national team still seeking a first title.

Source: L'Équipe