FC Porto and Betano Champion Inclusivity with Innovative Sensory Room at Dragão Stadium

This initiative is designed to accommodate neurodivergent individuals, including those with System Spectrum Disorder, Autism, Sensory Processing Dysfunction, Intellectual Deficit, and Mental Health Illness, offering them a comfortable environment to enjoy football matches.

Embracing Neurodiversity in Sports

INZONE is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at making football matches more accessible by providing a controlled environment that minimizes sensory overload, a common challenge for neurodivergent individuals. This move is part of FC Porto’s broader commitment to inclusivity, complementing previous efforts such as audio-descriptive commentary and the application of the ColorAdd code for colorblind fans.

The sensory room is part of a three-stage approach designed to gradually acclimate neurodivergent fans to the stadium atmosphere. Starting from a private and controlled sensory environment, the program aims to eventually integrate these fans and their families into the general stadium stands, fostering a more inclusive fan community.

Collaborative Efforts for Social Inclusion

The INZONE project is a collaborative effort between FC Porto, Betano, and the School of Health of the Polytechnic Institute of Porto.

Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa, President of FC Porto, expressed pride in the club’s sustainability and inclusion initiatives, stating “FC Porto has been carrying out work around sustainability and, more specifically, inclusion, which I am very proud of and which has been described as being a point of reference.

“This is another step we are taking in partnership with Betano and the School of Health of the Polytechnic Institute of Porto, which allows us to equip the Dragão Stadium with amenities that did not exist before that make us more inclusive and prepared to welcome all Porto fans.”

Panos Konstantopoulos, President of the Kaizen Foundation, emphasized the importance of creating inclusive environments for people with sensory challenges. “It is a great honour for us at Kaizen Gaming and Betano, to launch this initiative that creates a more inclusive environment for people with sensory challenges.

“The new sensory room at the Dragão stadium is a significant step towards social integration and diversity. With the invaluable support of the President of FC Porto and in collaboration with the School of Health of Porto, we have created a safe and calming space.

Our Comment on the Article

FC Porto and Betano’s introduction of the INZONE sensory room at the Dragão Stadium is a commendable step towards fostering inclusivity within the football community. This initiative not only enhances the matchday experience for neurodivergent individuals but also sets a precedent for other clubs and organizations to follow.

By prioritizing social inclusion and diversity, FC Porto and Betano are contributing to a more accepting and supportive sporting world, demonstrating the powerful role sports can play in promoting social awareness and equality.