Airbnb's Accessibility Commitment for Paris 2024: Initiatives, Support & Scholarships


03/12/2024


Airbnb, a global partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, has announced that Para athletes Axel Allétru and Sofyane Mehiaoui will be hosting exclusive overnight stays at their accessible homes during the Paris 2024 Games.
 
Allétru, who transitioned from motocross to become a European champion in Para swimming following a life-changing accident at the 2010 World Motocross Championships, will open his home in Lille Metropole on August 10th to up to two guests. The following day, he will accompany them to watch the men’s handball final at Pierre Mauroy Stadium.
 
Mehiaoui, a prominent figure in French wheelchair basketball, will welcome guests to his Paris residence on September 6th. Lucky visitors will also receive two tickets to the men’s wheelchair basketball final at Arena Bercy the next day.
 
These distinctive stays, hosted by the athletes themselves, exemplify Airbnb's dedication to increasing the availability of accessible homes ahead of the Games. They are also in line with Paris 2024’s goal of hosting inclusive and accessible games for all.
 
In line with Airbnb's commitment to inclusive travel, both homes will be featured in the company’s Adapted Category, which includes over 1,100 listings worldwide with verified accessibility features such as step-free entry, accessible bedrooms and bathrooms, and at least one accessibility amenity in the bathroom.

“Airbnb is thrilled to collaborate with Axel Allétru and Sofyane Mehiaoui,” said Suzanne Edwards, Airbnb's Head of Accessibility Hosting Standards. “With the Olympic Games returning to France after a century, our goal is to foster inclusivity and create a sense of community with these inclusive stays.”

Airbnb's Commitment to Accessibility at Paris 2024
As a proud Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner, Airbnb is dedicated to ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for all attendees during Paris 2024. The platform has been actively encouraging homeowners in the host regions to showcase their accessible properties, thus expanding the availability of suitable accommodations.
 
Furthermore, Airbnb has initiated several programs to support new hosts who can provide accessibility features to potential guests. These efforts include the development of educational content, hosting regular webinars, and offering personalized guidance and tools.
 
In addition to these host and guest-focused initiatives, Airbnb is extending its support to the Olympic Refuge Foundation and serves as the Inaugural Official Partner for the Refugee Paralympic Team for Paris 2024. This includes offering scholarships to assist team members with training and living expenses as they embark on their Paralympic journey.