The accessibility of this year’s World Cup

I missed this news when it happened, but FIFA last month put out a press release in which it announced this year’s World Cup matches would be accessible to people with disabilities. Notably, FIFA noted this year’s World Cup would be the first-ever tournament to feature sign language interpretation broadcasts for every match.

“FIFA is dedicated to making sure that all fans—including those with disabilities and their families and friends—have an excellent experience at this year’s FIFA World Cup,” FIFA wrote in its May 21 announcement. “Featuring 48 teams for the first time, this year’s tournament will be more inclusive than ever—not only expanding participation among nations, but also enhancing accessibility for fans with disabilities through expanded resources designed to make the matchday experience truly memorable. Some initiatives build on activations used successfully at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, such as sensory bags and audio-descriptive commentary. New this year—and a first for any FIFA tournament—sign language broadcasts will be available for every match, allowing fans both inside and outside the stadium to follow the action and excitement through play-by-play coverage and interpretation of key audio cues. In preparation for the biggest FIFA World Cup yet, world football’s governing body is working hard to raise the standard for inclusion in the sport, and to provide services and support that allow all fans to enjoy the beautiful game.”

Other “accessible innovations,” as they’re called by FIFA, includes sensory bags and sensory rooms at stadiums for neurodivergent people, mobility assistance at venues, and the FIFA tournament app supports adjustable font sizes, captions, and customizable color contrast. As to the sign language interpretation, FIFA said “all group-stage matches played in the United States and Canada will feature American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation, while matches in Mexico will feature Mexican Sign Language (LSM).” Moreover, during knockout rounds, “most matches will be available in ASL, with LSM provided for select matches featuring Spanish-speaking countries.”

I’ve been watching the World Cup matches on FOX and have been enjoying them. FIFA deserves kudos for its work in making the tournament accessible to all; last July, I posted a story about the Club World Cup being made accessible to the disability community. It featured an interview with FIFA’s accessibility coordinator, Natalie Gross.

The World Cup Final will be held on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey.