Football Supporters Europe (FSE) is delighted to confirm that its Disability & Inclusion Fan Network has become a member of the European Disability Forum (EDF) strengthening the representation of football supporters with disabilities within the wider European disability rights movement.
This comes after FSE attended the EDF General Assembly for the first time in Limassol on 9–10 May 2026, alongside disability rights organisations from across Europe, following the network’s membership being approved in March.
Becoming a member of the EDF ensures that the experiences and rights of fans with disabilities are represented beyond football structures alone, connecting supporter advocacy directly with broader European disability policy and rights campaigns.
For supporters with disabilities, barriers often extend far beyond the stadium, including transport, access to ticketing systems and reliable information, unequal travel experiences across borders, and other forms of discrimination. Membership of the EDF strengthens the network’s ability to address these issues collectively at a European level.
Joining the EDF also allows FSE’s Disability & Inclusion Fan Network to collaborate with leading disability rights organisations, share expertise and contribute to wider discussions on accessibility, inclusion, equality, and independent participation in public life.
The membership recognises that football supporters with disabilities are not only fans of the game, but people whose rights must be protected and advanced across every aspect of the matchday and travel experience.
Speaking after the EDF General Assembly, James Flanagan, FSE’s Disability Inclusion Fan Network Coordinator said: “We are delighted for the network to join the European Disability Forum. It is vital that football supporters with disabilities are represented within wider European discussions on disability rights, accessibility and inclusion. Football is part of everyday life for millions of people across Europe, and supporters with disabilities must be fully included in every aspect of that experience from transport and ticketing to stadium access and participation in supporter culture.”
Simon Scheidegger, FSE’s Disability & Inclusion Fan Network Steering Committee member added: “The steering committee is exceptionally proud to officially join the European Disability Forum. This membership is a game changer for football supporters with disabilities. It elevates our advocacy beyond the stadium gates, ensuring that the rights of people with disabilities within football supporter communities are championed on a broader European level. By joining forces with the EDF, we have a much stronger voice to dismantle cross border barriers and push for a truly inclusive football culture across the continent.”
Pietro Cirrincione, EDF Executive Committee Member, said: “Our slogan ‘Nothing without us’ extends, of course, to sports and football. As captain of the Romulea Autistic Football Club, it’s very important to me that we can enjoy watching and playing football as much as anyone else. That is why the work of Football Supporters Europe in ensuring inclusive, accessible spaces is so important.”
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