A new class of p38伪 inhibitors based on a biaryl-triazolopyridine scaffold was investigated. X-ray crystallographic data of the initial lead compound cocrystallised with p38伪 was crucial in order to uncover a unique binding mode of the inhibitor to the hinge region via a pair of water molecules. Synthesis and SAR was directed towards the improvement of binding affinity, as well as ADME properties for this new class of p38伪 inhibitors and ultimately afforded compounds showing good in vivo efficacy.