Palace Merano, the Italian medi-spa has launched a new Sport Recovery Lab which focuses on physical recovery while also revealing a tie-up with French football legend Zinédine Zidane.

Zidane will be the new brand ambassador for the property as it builds its profile in the sport and recovery sector.

Palance Merano is known for its Revital Method, which blends functional, allopathic and energy medicine with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for preventative care while also delivering culinary wellness programmes using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Zidane has been a regular guest at the property for nearly 30 years, visiting twice a year to underpin his training regime and following a wellness routine centred around the Revital Detox Programme, with early mornings devoted to medical check-ups, consultations with naturopaths and nutritionists, followed by hydro-mud therapy and massage.

He was among the first to experience the Sport Recovery Lab, a space dedicated to muscle recovery and rehabilitation for athletes, which was introduced last month. The Revital Spa has also been upgraded.

Zidane says: "It’s a place that completely recharges me, where I can truly disconnect and refuel. After just one day, I already feel like a new person, thanks to the extraordinary team that has been looking after me for almost 30 years.”

Through this partnership, he will serve as the face of Palace Merano while also supporting and advising on new wellness programmes.

"It’s a true honour to have Zinédine Zidane as our ambassador," says CEO, Stefano Plotegher. "His extraordinary career makes him the best proof of the lasting benefits of our method."

Palace Merano, located in Merano near the Italian, Austrian border, has 99 rooms, including 14 junior suites and 30 suites. The 6,000sq m Revital Center and 1,500sq m medical floor offering advanced diagnostics and tailor-made treatments.

Facilities include hydrotherapy pools, beauty treatment rooms, saunas, a fitness area and a medical area with diagnostic labs and various therapies.