PZPN

The main aim of the campaign is to promote Polish stadiums as places that are open and safe for all fans, regardless of their condition, possible dysfunctions or special needs. The campaign will be inaugurated during matches of the seventh and eighth rounds of the PKO Bank Polski Ekstraklasa and Fortuna 1. Liga from 1 to 18 September 2023.

"Stadiony bez barier" is a unique campaign aimed at showing that football stadiums are open to all fans, including those who have to struggle with disabilities. Each and every one of us, without exception, should be able to experience emotions related to sport at the stadium on our own and in safety, which is why I am delighted that the PZPN, in cooperation with the Disabled Supporters' Association and Ekstraklasa and Fortuna 1. Liga clubs, has taken the initiative to popularise sport among disabled people. The Ministry of Sport and Tourism also seeks to popularise sport and reach the widest possible group of people with its activities, including fans and athletes struggling with adversity. An example of this is the implementation of the Sport for Persons with Disabilities programme, which in 2023 reached a record budget of PLN 30 million. I would like to thank everyone involved in the implementation of the "Stadion bez barier" project and encourage you to experience the support together. Together we are creating Polish sport, says Kamil Bortniczuk, Minister of Sport and Tourism.

The diversity of football fans is reflected in the infrastructure solutions at Polish stadiums, such as dedicated car parks and entrances, access routes, seating areas, toilets or rest areas. There is also no shortage of special services, including the availability of a guide, electric wheelchair transport, wheelchair rental or live audio commentary. Hundreds of volunteers and stadium staff ensure that supporters in need of assistance are provided. Places are also available for people with a range of needs, including wheelchair users and companions.

The emotions associated with sport have no barriers. People with reduced mobility, deaf, blind or living with other disabilities can fully enjoy the match experience. Through the "Stadiony bez barier" campaign we want to show that our sports venues and clubs are open to everyone and encourage even more disabled fans to attend football matches from the stadium stands, stressed Cezary Kulesza, President of the Polish Football Association.

For years the clubs have been committed to making Ekstraklasa stadiums accessible to all fans, including those with various disabilities. As the infrastructure develops, our stadiums are not only becoming more beautiful, but more technical obstacles that might have been a challenge for some people years ago are disappearing. New venues are designed from the beginning to take into account the needs of all supporters. But infrastructure is not everything - clubs care and work to ensure that football fans have the widest possible access to matches. So that everyone who comes to a match can experience those unique emotions of supporting their team together from the stands. This is possible and it is important that we all speak out about it, comments Marcin Animucki, President of Ekstraklasa S.A.

It is extremely gratifying to see that more and more actors are joining the campaign every year. We are proud that the event is increasing its scope and breaking down, above all, the mental barriers, those in our heads. Even the best-adapted stadium in terms of infrastructure (and Poland is already doing really well in this respect) will not fill up with fans without the openness of the people and a good atmosphere around it. In the stadium there is room for everyone, regardless of health condition, disability or special needs, adds Michal Fitas, president of the Disabled Supporters' Association.

The campaign includes banners promoting the #StadionyBezBarier slogan, which will be displayed during matches of the 7th and 8th rounds of the PKO Bank Polski Ekstraklasa and Fortuna 1. Liga, as well as on 7 September this year during the Polish national team's match against the Faroe Islands at PGE Narodowy. The campaign will also feature a promotional spot and advertising materials displayed on screens and social media channels. Audiodescription for visually impaired and blind people will be available during the games.

This year, 19 matches will be played in 19 stadiums as part of the campaign. The weekend will begin with a Friday meeting between ŁKS Łódź and Warta Poznań (PKO Bank Polski Ekstraklasa) and Resovia Rzeszów and Bruk-Bet Termalika Nieciecza (Fortuna 1. Liga). In both stadiums the matches will start at 6 p.m.

Let's meet at the Stadium!