A survey conducted by Level Playing Field, a body representing disabled sports fans, has revealed that Uefa’s communication with disabled supporters has been widely described as “non-existent.” This survey paints a damning picture of accessibility for fans attending European away games. The report outlines the barriers that disabled fans face when traveling to watch games in Uefa club competitions and questions the governing body’s commitment to providing accessible matchdays.
Over half of the respondents who had attended a Champions League, Europa League, Conference League, or Super Cup match in the past five years reported sub-standard provisions for their needs. According to the survey, 53% of respondents rated the accessibility of stadiums as “poor,” “very poor,” or “non-existent,” while 44% identified physical access to the ground as the primary obstacle to attending a game. The fact that 23% cited a “lack of information” as the main issue should be a cause for concern among those responsible for ensuring fans’ comfort.
Additionally, 79% of those surveyed had been required to sit with home fans as away supporters, raising safety concerns as segregation between opposing fans is considered standard practice. The survey’s conclusions regarding Uefa’s attitude towards these issues are particularly alarming. “Non-existent” was the verdict of 29% when asked about Uefa’s communication levels, and only 22% gave a response more favorable than “poor.” Only 12% rated Uefa’s commitment to providing an accessible matchday more positively than “adequate.”
Tony Taylor, chair of Level Playing Field, emphasized the need for urgent action to improve access and inclusion for away fans in Europe. He stated, “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 to bring about meaningful change.” Taylor also highlighted that the survey results confirm ongoing anecdotal reports of substandard access and urged Uefa 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 that failures at the 2022 and 2023 Champions League finals in Paris and Istanbul additionally highlighted the need for wider data to be gathered. Uefa has been contacted for comment.
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