Innovative audio-descriptive commentary available for all UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 matches

Blind and partially sighted fans across the globe can follow the action like never before thanks to UEFA’s new audio-descriptive commentary (ADC) service.

The tailored commentary is designed for supporters with visual impairments to enhance their experience and help to increase inclusivity for fans. Around the world, 253 million people are either partially sighted or blind, meaning they often miss out on enjoying the action, but UEFA will break new ground at the Women’s EURO, delivering a specialised service via the internet rather than the previous method using FM radio, which was only available to supporters inside stadiums.

The ADC service underwent a successful trial run at the UEFA Women’s Champions League final in Turin on 21 May and will now be rolled out across matches at this summer’s tournament, which kicks off when hosts England meet Austria on 6 July.

How does audio-descriptive commentary work?

A specially trained commentator describes the action for visually impaired fansPablo Blazquez Dominguez

The service is provided by a specially trained commentator. They provide additional narration which describes all significant visual information such as body language, facial expressions, scenery, action, clothing, colours and anything else that is important to conveying the image, venue, match, event or surrounding ambience.

During the match, the commentator will describe on-pitch action rather than talking about statistics or tactics or providing lengthy summaries of previous moments.

How to access the ADC service

A blind fan listens to the ADC service Pablo Blazquez Dominguez

To access the ADC service, supporters should click on the link below and download the Raydio app, which can be accessed via wifi or mobile data.

In this case, a slight delay in the commentary should be expected.

Finally, don’t forget to bring your own mobile phone and headphones!

Supporters attending matches at UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 should note that not all stadia are fully covered by wifi. If you can’t access the wifi at the stadium or if you are anywhere else in the world, you can still access the comment following this link.