Qatar 2022: Most Accessible Edition for Disabled People in World Cup History

Doha, December 16 (QNA) - Before every kick-off at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, two fans in the accessibility seats have been invited to meet their heroes and be a part of the pre-match ceremony. It is an exceptional experience that reflects Qatar's success in hosting the most accessible World Cup edition for disabled people in history. Senior Diversity & Accessibility Manager, FIFA, Hala Ousta said: "Accessibility and inclusivity have been key principles of delivering the tournament. They have been embedded across different strategies and can be seen at all eight stadiums - including infrastructure, accessible parking, five types of accessible seating, accessible toilets and sensory rooms. "Our accessibility work is complemented by an exclusive programme of randomly selecting fans, getting them to enjoy the pre-match ceremony on the pitch and lining up alongside the players and officials. It is something to celebrate the most accessible tournament we've had to-date." Ten-year-old Aiden Bell was chosen to line up with England ahead of their quarter-final match against France at Al Bayt Stadium -and for his dad, George, seeing his son next to Three Lions captain Harry Kane was a mind-blowing moment. "It was amazing - words can't do justice to how proud that made me. Watching the national anthem at a World Cup quarter-final and seeing Aiden there - it was unbelievable," George, an accountant who has lived in Qatar since 2017, said in a statement to the website of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy. Ahmed Al Bahar was chosen to be on the pitch for the France team ahead of kick-off - and he was full of praise for the accessibility features of the tournament. "This is the number one experience of my life," said Ahmed. "It was a dream. On the pitch, I couldn't believe I was there. It's like you're somewhere else. It's amazing." The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) and FIFA have successfully delivered the most accessible FIFA World Cup in history. The tournament has included a vast range of accessibility features, including five types of accessible tickets, sensory rooms, audio descriptive commentary for blind and partially-sighted fans in Arabic and English, mobility assistance services in the last mile and inside stadiums, and facilities to ensure the safety and comfort of all fans. Tournament preparations were supported by the Accessibility Forum, which was launched by the SC in 2016 and meant disabled fans contributed to the development of facilities and projects to ensure this edition of the FIFA World Cup catered for every section of society. Executive Director, Community Engagement & Commercial Development Khalid Al Naama said: "From the very start, our goal was to host the most accessible FIFA World Cup in history - and we are beyond proud to see our plans being delivered successfully." "The feedback we have received from members of the accessibility community has been excellent and we are happy that our commitment in this area is helping to drive the accessibility agenda in Qatar and across the region. We are sure this will prove to be one of the enduring legacies of the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab world." (QNA)