280,000 tickets reserved for people with disabilities at Paris 2024
Organisers ensure unprecedented accessibility
As Paris gears up to host the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, accessibility has taken centre stage. Organisers are implementing various initiatives to ensure an inclusive experience for all attendees, especially those with disabilities.
Paris 2024 has introduced a unified real-time ticketing platform designed for people with disabilities (PWD) and people in wheelchairs (PIW).
A total of 280,000 tickets across various events have been allocated for these groups. Each venue has been audited to guarantee wheelchair-accessible seating with optimal views, even accommodating standing spectators in front.
Comprehensive HTML guides compatible with reading software are available online for visually impaired individuals. Tickets can be purchased alongside an additional seat for an accompanying person, ensuring a seamless experience for all attendees.
The Paris 2024 Games app provides detailed accessibility information for each venue, facilitating easy access planning. A reservation platform allows the booking of accessible shuttle services operated by Île-de-France-Mobilités (IDFM) from key Parisian stations, ensuring convenient transportation for ticket holders and their companions at a nominal fee.
Transilien network
Moreover, the Transilien network boasts 140 accessible stations near competition venues, complemented by 1,000 accessible taxis across Île-de-France, quadrupling the previous availability in Paris.
Upon arrival at venues, designated drop-off points and accessible parking spaces are provided. Toyota’s ‘Accessible People Mover’ offers micromobility solutions at twelve venues, enhancing mobility within the event areas.
Every venue features a dedicated welcome desk with BIM (magnetic hearing loop) technology for enhanced communication with deaf attendees. All volunteers undergo training to assist people with disabilities effectively.
Paris 2024 offers fast-track entry and adapted screening protocols for people with disabilities, ensuring a smooth entry process. Inside venues, measures include lower or covered floor cable protectors, accessible signage, and a dedicated canine comfort zone for guide dogs.
Unique services like audio descriptions for select sports events and live commentary in French and English are available via the official Games app, enhancing the experience for visually impaired spectators. Speeches and remarks at ceremonies are subtitled and interpreted in French Sign Language.
In a groundbreaking move, tactile tablets and low-vision headsets are deployed at select venues, offering real-time game information and enhanced viewing options for visually impaired attendees.
Paris 2024 has also introduced a telepresence project called Robby, enabling hospitalised children to experience the Games remotely via robots at various event locations.
For further details on accessibility services at Paris 2024, visit the Paris 2024 Accessibility FAQ and Official Paris 2024 Accessibility Information.
By prioritising accessibility across all facets of the Games, Paris 2024 aims to set a new standard for inclusivity in major international sporting events, ensuring that everyone can enjoy and participate in the excitement of the Olympics and Paralympics.Top of Form
Featured image: A CGI of a Paris 2024 stadium. Credit: Paris 2024
