On December 3, recognized as the International Day of People with Disabilities, FC Barcelona reaffirmed its dedication to promoting accessibility and inclusion. Over the past year, the club has launched various initiatives spearheaded by its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion department. These efforts are designed to enable individuals with physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities to access the club’s facilities, services, and information independently and safely. The actions represent a commitment to supporting the rights and well-being of people with disabilities and fostering a more inclusive society.
In terms of physical accessibility, FC Barcelona has introduced inclusive mannequins in its official stores that reflect the diversity of society, featuring models who use wheelchairs, wear prostheses, and have cochlear implants. The Palau Blaugrana has also added a dedicated area for wheelchair users, complete with companion seating, and a new online ticketing system for easier purchase of disabled-access seats across venues.
Sensory accessibility improvements include enhancements to the Barça Immersive Tour, which now offers a magnetic loop, multimedia audio guides with subtitles in multiple languages, and noise-cancelling headphones for those with auditory sensitivities. Additionally, the Barça Museum introduced ‘Hores + Tranquil·les’, quieter visiting hours every Saturday, designed to create a calming environment for those with autism or sensory sensitivities, supported by trained staff.
Regarding digital accessibility, FC Barcelona has conducted audits and provided training for its employees to ensure that digital content is accessible, covering areas like graphic design and content subtitling.
Moreover, the club’s partnership with ONCE aims to foster accessibility at the upcoming Spotify Camp Nou, commemorated through a special ONCE coupon celebrating the club’s 125th anniversary. FC Barcelona has also engaged with the deaf community by hosting activities during the International Week of People with Deafness. Events included performances of the Barça anthem in sign language and appearances by children with cochlear implants.
In a special 125th anniversary gala, the club introduced a sensory relief painting allowing blind children to experience the mascot through touch. The live event included subtitles and sign language interpretation to ensure access for deaf and hearing-impaired attendees.
On this significant day, FC Barcelona continues to set high standards for accessibility and inclusion, ensuring both their physical and digital spaces are welcoming to all. This commitment not only advocates for equal rights but also enhances the overall experience for a diverse range of fans, underpinning a hopeful future of inclusivity in sports.