Associated Press

MADRID (AP) — Atletico Madrid raised awareness of inclusion with activities for disabled fans during its Champions League match against Lille on Wednesday.

The club and its partners were seeking to host “the most inclusive Champions League match ever” and break the record of 1,740 disabled fans set by Real Betis against Valladolid in the Spanish league last year, according to the UEFA.

Pre-match activities at Metropolitano Stadium included a wheelchair football exhibition.

“It’s a great initiative,” said Ignacio Sánchez Heras, visually impaired and present at the match. “It helps educate other fans about the importance of inclusion.” I hope they do it more often.

Atletico had not yet released the number of disabled fans in attendance, but the record was not expected to be broken. The club downplayed the record ahead of the match, saying it mainly hoped to help launch a movement to improve access to sporting venues for disabled fans.

The match took place days after a report from advocacy group Level Playing Field noted difficulties for disabled fans at outdoor stadiums across Europe, including complaints about wheelchair users having to sit alongside supporters of the home team.

Atletico attracted disabled fans to Wednesday’s match by selling discounted tickets and working with its supporters groups to spread the message. Fans were required to provide their disability card or present a disability certificate to complete their purchase.

Three children with Down syndrome entered the field with the referee, and audio description was provided for those who needed it. Sign language was broadcast on the video panels during the national anthem and when the teams were announced.

Lille won the match 3-1.

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