Paralympics Ireland has officially announced a new partnership with Uber that will provide vital support to Irish para-athletes as they prepare for upcoming international competitions.
The collaboration, unveiled today, includes direct financial assistance and dedicated access to Uber’s transport services for members of the Paralympics Ireland team. The initiative is designed to remove key logistical barriers and allow athletes to focus fully on training and performance.
“We are delighted to be partnering with Uber, a company that shares our vision for greater accessibility and inclusion,” said Neasa Russell, Chief Operating Officer at Paralympics Ireland. “Transport and infrastructure are among the greatest barriers faced by para-athletes, and this innovative partnership will make a real and tangible difference to their daily lives and performance journeys.”
The partnership builds on Uber’s existing efforts to promote accessibility. In 2024, the company launched Uber Access across Ireland, offering on-demand wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs). Uber has also integrated features such as VoiceOver technology for blind or low-vision users and vibrating alerts for deaf or hard-of-hearing riders.
Kieran Harte, General Manager of Uber Ireland, emphasized the significance of the partnership. “We’re incredibly proud to partner with Paralympics Ireland, an organisation that champions excellence, resilience, and inclusion,” he said. “At Uber, we believe technology can be a powerful tool to remove barriers, and this partnership is an important step in our broader efforts to improve mobility and independence for people with disabilities.”
The initiative follows Uber’s previous collaboration with Irish para-swimmer Róisín Ní Ríain, who was featured in a global campaign spotlighting her achievements and the impact of accessible transportation.
Government officials have also welcomed the announcement. “This collaboration is especially meaningful through directly supporting our Paralympians in their training and competition, helping to remove barriers and make their sporting journeys more accessible,” said Minister for Disability Hildegarde Naughton TD.
“Our Irish athletes represent the very best of determination and excellence,” she added. “It is an honour to stand behind them as they continue to make us proud on the international stage.”
The partnership marks a significant milestone in advancing inclusivity in Irish sport and reflects a growing recognition of the importance of accessible transport in empowering athletes with disabilities.
Further Reading for Sport for Business members:
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