Uefa’s communication with disabled supporters has been widely described as “non-existent” in a survey that paints a damning picture of accessibility for fans watching their clubs on European away trips.
The report by Level Playing Field, a body representing disabled sports fans, outlined the barriers that exist when travelling to see games in Uefa club competitions and questioned the governing body’s commitment to providing accessible matchdays.
Over half of the respondents who had travelled to attend a Champions League, Europa League, Conference League or Super Cup match in the past five years said provision for their requirements was sub-standard. According to the survey, 53% said the accessibility of stadia was “poor”, “very poor” or “non-existent”, while 44% agreed physical access to a ground was the primary hurdle to attending a game.
The fact 23% cited a “lack of information” as the main issue should ring alarm bells among those tasked with facilitating fans’ comfort. Concerns were also raised that 79% of those surveyed had been required to sit with home fans as an away supporter, raising safety concerns given segregation between opposing contingents is considered standard.
But the conclusions regarding Uefa’s attitude to such issues may raise eyebrows in particular. “Non-existent” was the verdict of 29% when asked about its communication levels and only 22% gave a response more favourable than “poor”. Only 12% answered more positively than “adequate” when asked how they rated Uefa’s commitment to providing an accessible matchday.
Tony Taylor, chair of Level Playing Field, said: “The need for urgent action on the standards of access and inclusion for away fans in Europe is clear. We will assist clubs to make use of this report, to help identify how they can provide relevant support to their disabled fans, but Uefa must display leadership and a commitment to inclusion, in order to bring about meaningful change.
“The results of this survey have proven ongoing anecdotal reports of substandard access. It is important the governing body now see this as an opportunity to work with clubs and venues to ensure they deliver for disabled supporters, allowing fans to travel with confidence.”
Although the survey focuses on standard away games in European competitions, it is understood failures at the 2022 and 2023 Champions League finals in Paris and Istanbul additionally highlighted a need for wider data to be gathered.
Uefa said: “The findings of the Level Playing Field survey highlight serious concerns about the perception of stadium accessibility for disabled supporters, and it would be helpful to know more about the facts that led to these conclusions. Uefa is committed to strengthening inclusivity and accessibility at stadiums across Europe, not just in matches organised by Uefa, which align with policies and targets outlined in the Uefa football sustainability strategy 2030, ‘Strength Through Unity’.”
Uefa also noted that it had introduced minimum standards for visiting supporters at its club competitions matches.
