My Unexpected Experience visiting the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
A few days ago, I had the opportunity to visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (home to Real Madrid, is one of the most famous football stadiums in the world) as part of a family trip. As father of 2 beautiful girls (one 3-year-old girl), a stroller is always useful when we traveling.
Unfortunately, despite the beautiful and imposing structure and the millions of euros invested in players (the Real Madrid is one of the wealthiest and most successful football clubs globally, with millions of fans) they do not consider plans to make the visit to the stadium accessible (Accessibility in public venues is a growing concern, with laws and regulations in many countries requiring wide kinds of accommodations for individuals with disabilities).
Speaking from my experience and as a professional dedicated to launching accessible products for any type of motor disability (temporary or permanent) users, the stadium does not have enough pathways for wheelchairs. Most of the exhibitions only offer reading signs, and the process of climbing five levels using only stairs (mechanic escalators aren’t useful with strollers) was unpleasant. The worst part was being forced to use stairs to exit the stadium, which led us directly to the store. After such an uncomfortable experience, the last thing I wanted was to spend even one euro on a souvenir.
I believe that this type of experience was quite traumatic for a family of four or anyone who fortunately have functional motor, visual, and auditory systems. I can only imagine the challenges faced by someone with a permanent or temporary disability. I raise my voice on their behalf, urging companies like Real Madrid and those responsible for generating millions of euros thanks to their fan base to be more empathetic and to develop and think about being truly inclusive. It’s not enough to simply wave multicolored flags as a form of tokenism, or create limit amount of spaces for wheelchair’s, the real importance of inclusivity extends beyond compliance with laws; it reflects the values of the organization and its commitment to all fans, regardless of their physical abilities.
In conclusion, while the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium stands as a testament to architectural grandeur and sporting excellence, offering breathtaking views and an electric atmosphere, it falls short in accessibility. The sheer history and passion encapsulated within its walls are unparalleled, making it a must-visit for any football enthusiast. However, as Real Madrid continues to modernize this iconic venue, it is crucial that they prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that all fans, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy the experience comfortably and safely. True inclusivity goes beyond symbolic gestures; it requires genuine empathy and action. By addressing these accessibility challenges, the Bernabéu can truly become a welcoming space for every supporter, reflecting the universal spirit of the beautiful game.
