The World Cup ticket controversy exposing football’s accessibility problem
Controversy over disabled supporters being charged for Personal Assistant tickets to attend the FIFA World Cup 2026 has brought accessibility in football into sharp focus.
Unlike many sporting events, disabled World Cup supporters must pay for their companion’s ticket, despite relying on them for essential support. There is also no guarantee that a disabled supporter and their Personal Assistant will be seated together, creating obvious concerns for those who require assistance with mobility, personal care, or other medical needs during the match.
The concerns surrounding the World Cup highlight how disabled fans face additional costs and barriers that many other supporters do not face. Research by the Disability Policy Centre found that more than half of disabled people in the UK have been prevented from watching live sport because of accessibility barriers at venues. These findings demonstrate that, despite progress in improving accessibility, many disabled people continue to face obstacles when trying to participate in shared sporting experiences.
Watching live sport is about far more than the game itself. It gives people the opportunity to socialise, spend time with family and friends, and maintain independence.
While barriers remain, many football clubs have demonstrated that improving accessibility is achievable. For example, Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium received the ‘Level Playing Field Centre of Excellence’ Award in 2012 and offers 240 wheelchair user spaces. Similarly, the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was recognised with the IOC IAKS Gold Award and IPC IAKS Distinction for Accessibility. The stadium features accessible entrances, wheelchair spaces in every stand, Changing Places facilities, a Sensory Suite for supporters with additional sensory needs, and audio descriptive commentary for blind and partially sighted fans.
These examples show that meaningful progress is possible. However, major tournaments and venues must continue to improve accessibility so that disabled supporters can enjoy football without facing unnecessary barriers.
What disabled people need to know when going to a football match for the first time
For those attending a match for the first time, advance planning can make the experience much less daunting. Before travelling, check the club or stadium’s website for accessibility information, including wheelchair spaces, accessible entrances, parking and toilet facilities.
If you have any questions or specific requirements, contact the club’s Disability Access Officer (DAO) or Disability Liaison Officer (DLO), who can provide advice on accessible seating, facilities, and the support available on matchday.
It is also worth planning your journey in advance, pre-booking accessible parking where possible, and arriving early to avoid busy crowds and to familiarise yourself with the stadium.
Many clubs also have disabled supporters’ groups that can offer practical advice, while Level Playing Field has produced a helpful First Game Supporters Guide to help disabled fans prepare for their visit.
Football has the power to bring people together, and everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the matchday experience. While many clubs have made significant progress in improving accessibility, there is still more to be done to ensure disabled supporters can attend major sporting events safely, comfortably, and without unnecessary barriers. By continuing to prioritise inclusion and accessibility, football can become a game that is truly open to everyone.
