The CAFE Week of Action 2018 is our sixth annual celebration of access and inclusion, and the CAFE team was delighted that FC Barcelona joined us again in promoting Total Football #TotalAccess.

During last season's initiative, FC Barcelona invited a group of young disabled fans to attend the club's match against Celta Vigo at the Nou Camp. The club surprised the young fans by bringing them onto the pitch shortly before kick off, where they were joined by Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and the rest of the Barcelona squad for a pre-match photograph.

This season, FC Barcelona were keen to get involved again, and invited CAFE's Media and Communications Manager Michael Rice to observe their CAFE Week of Action celebrations.

At half time in the recent match against Atletico Madrid, Barcelona turned the stadium blue as CAFE Week of Action graphics were displayed on each of the stadium screens and all advertising boards.

A statement of support was read by the stadium announcer, declaring FC Barcelona's commitment to access and inclusion for all fans.

The celebration was a good omen for Barcelona, who won the game 1-0 and moved eight points clear at the top of the La Liga table.

Following the match, Michael was interviewed by Barca TV about the CAFE Week of Action. Michael said, "Barcelona have taken access very seriously. It is a club which really cares about its fans, especially disabled fans, and making sure that they enjoy an exceptional matchday experience".

"There are a number of incredible staff and volunteers who do a great job here to help disabled people enjoy live football every week", added Michael.

At the Llotja President Suñol area inside the stadium, First Vice President, Jordi Cardoner presented a unique CAFE Week of Action Barcelona jersey. He was accompanied by Emili Rousaud - the head of the OAE department at the club which works to support disabled people in attending live matches at the stadium.

To find out more about the event, please visit the FC Barcelona website here.

CAFE would like to say a huge thank you to FC Barcelona for welcoming us to the Nou Camp and for once again joining us in celebrating Total Football #TotalAccess.

Published 15/03/2018