Athletes to benefit as IOC and Airbnb team up for sustainable accommodation
The International Olympic Committee and accommodation provider Airbnb embark on a partnership to create a new standard for hosting and help support athletes
A new standard for Olympic hosting and sustainability has taken a "significant" step forward according to the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Their new agreement with Airbnb, announced on Monday (18th November), is heralded as being a win for host cities, spectators and fans, as well as for athletes.
The nine-year partnership, which runs through to 2028, spans over five summer and winter Olympic Games.
“This innovative partnership underpins our strategy to ensure that the efficient staging of the Olympic Games is sustainable and leaves a legacy for the host community." - Thomas Bach, IOC President
The agreement includes accommodation 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.
The deal is described as falling in line with the sustainability objectives of Olympic Agenda 2020, the IOC's strategic roadmap for the future, as well as Airbnb's mission to promote sustainable travel.
"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." - Joe Gebbia, Airbnb Co-Founder
It also compliments the UN Sustainable Development Goals to provide travel options that are economically empowering, socially inclusive, and environmentally sustainable.
Airbnb Olympian Experiences
Airbnb joins as a new TOP programme partner for the IOC, with the two organisations vowing to work together in developing economic opportunities for athletes through the soon-to-be-launched Airbnb Olympian Experiences.
Athletes be able to become hosts, enabling them to offer visitors a unique experience while visiting their city, from the chance to train with an Olympian to exploring a city with an elite athlete.
President Bach outlined that this would allow athlete to develop revenue streams "through the promotion of physical activity and the Olympic values."
The partnership was well received by the IOC Athletes' Commission, that aims to empower athletes around the world on and off the field of play. It's Chair, two-time Olympic gold medal winning swimmer Kirsty Coventry, was delighted to note that the agreement will be benefit the athletes directly.
"This agreement is another example of how we are supporting and advocating for athletes throughout their career.” - Kirsty Coventry, Chair of the IOC Athletes’ Commission