On December 3, the International Day of People with Disabilities, FC Barcelona reaffirmed its dedication to fostering accessibility and inclusion for all individuals. Over the course of the past year, the club’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion department has rolled out several initiatives aimed at providing people with diverse physical, sensory, and cognitive abilities with easier access to its facilities, services, and information in a manner that promotes autonomy and safety. These efforts highlight the club’s commitment to championing the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities, contributing to a more inclusive society.
One notable advancement includes the introduction of inclusive mannequins in FC Barcelona’s official stores, showcasing a range of representations such as models in wheelchairs, those with prosthetics, cochlear implants, and glasses. This initiative underlines the club’s dedication to diversity and serves as a reflection of society’s variety.
In the Palau Blaugrana, a newly designated area for wheelchair users has been launched, featuring seven seating spots that accommodate companions, ensuring that attendees can enjoy events together. Additionally, a new online ticket purchasing system has been implemented, allowing wheelchair-accessible seating to be booked across all venues effortlessly.
To address sensory accessibility, FC Barcelona has improved its Barça Immersive Tour with enhancements for individuals who are hearing or visually impaired. This includes the installation of a magnetic loop, multimedia audio guides available in several languages, and noise-canceling headphones designed for children who experience autism or heightened sensitivity to sound. Furthermore, the Barça Museum has inaugurated ‘Hores + Tranquil·les,’ an initiative that offers quieter hours each Saturday, allowing guests with autism or sensory sensitivities to enjoy a more peaceful visit.
The club has also taken steps toward digital accessibility by conducting audits and providing training for staff responsible for graphic design, digital content creation, and accessible document design, making their online presence inclusive for everyone.
In a significant partnership, FC Barcelona has signed an agreement with ONCE, promoting accessibility in the forthcoming Spotify Camp Nou renovations and celebrating its 125th Anniversary with a special ONCE coupon dedicated to individuals with disabilities.
The club recently celebrated the International Week of People with Deafness and the International Day of Sign Language with various activities, including performances of the Barça anthem in sign language and participation from deaf children at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, underscoring its continuous commitment to this community.
The culmination of these efforts was illustrated during FC Barcelona’s 125th anniversary gala at the Liceu, where a sensory relief painting of the club mascot was presented to visually impaired children. Notably, the event was broadcast live with subtitles and sign language interpretation, making the celebration accessible to a broader audience.
As FC Barcelona continues to strive for new standards in accessibility and inclusion, its initiatives reflect a hopeful vision for a future where physical and digital spaces offer equitable access for all individuals. This commitment not only enhances the experience for fans but also sets a precedent in the sporting world, encouraging other organizations to embrace inclusivity.