ASPC Update February 2020 | Page 15

IOC AND AIRBNB ANNOUNCE MAJOR GLOBAL OLYMPIC PARTNERSHIP IOC AND AIRBNB ANNOUNCE MAJOR GLOBAL OLYMPIC PARTNERSHIP - Airbnb joins the TOP programme and will support the sustainability objectives of the Olympic Movement - Economic opportunity for athletes to develop revenue streams through new Airbnb Olympian Experiences - Hundreds of thousands of new Airbnb hosts will support and participate in the Olympic Movement by providing accommodation and experiences through to 2028 provisions that will reduce costs for Olympic Games organisers and stakeholders, minimise the need for construction of new accommodation infrastructure for the Olympic Games period, and generate direct revenue for local hosts and communities. Working together with the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), Airbnb will also promote accommodation that supports accessibility for people with disabilities or other accessibility needs. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Airbnb today announced a signifi cant agreement to support the Olympic Movement through to 2028. The nine-year, fi ve-Games partnership is designed to create a new standard for hosting that will be a win for host cities, a win for spectators and fans, and a win for athletes. IOC President Thomas Bach said: “This innovative partnership underpins our strategy to ensure that the effi cient staging of the Olympic Games is sustainable and leaves a legacy for the host community. With Airbnb’s support, we will also develop new opportunities for athletes around the world to develop their own direct revenue streams through the promotion of physical activity and the Olympic values. Through this partnership, there will also be a direct benefi t for athletes over and above the USD 5 billion the IOC is distributing during this Olympiad for their benefi t to Organising Committees and sports organisations around the world.” In line with Olympic Agenda 2020, the IOC’s strategic roadmap for the future, and Airbnb’s mission to promote sustainable travel, the agreement supports the sustainability objectives of the Olympic Movement. These joint efforts will be in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals to provide travel options that are economically empowering, socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable. The agreement includes accommodation Airbnb Co-Founder Joe Gebbia said: “Airbnb and the IOC have a strong track record in creating and accommodating the world’s greatest events. Our Olympic partnership will ensure that the Games are the most inclusive, accessible and sustainable yet, and leave a lasting positive legacy for athletes and host communities. Airbnb’s mission is to create a world where anyone can belong anywhere, and we are proud that the Olympic spirit will be carried by our community.”