UEFA Funds Sensory Lounge Project for Children at National Arena
The “Sensory Lounge” project at the National Arena has been selected by the UEFA Foundation for Children as one of 29 European initiatives to receive funding.
Implemented at the country’s largest stadium, this initiative has been praised for fostering the inclusion of neurodivergent children and for creating an adapted space that allows them to enjoy football matches in safety and comfort.
Recognition for the Initiative
The Sensory Lounge 222 is designed for children and young people diagnosed with autism, providing a specially arranged environment tailored to their sensory needs. Beneficiaries can access this facility during matches of the Romanian national football team, as well as games involving FCSB, Dinamo Bucharest, and Rapid Bucharest.
Initiators highlight that this project is a first for Romania and unique in Southeast Europe, showing that sports infrastructure can be made accessible for all children, regardless of their specific needs.
Crina Nedelcu, president of the Neurodiverse Foundation, stated, “We are thrilled that this project has received international recognition and funding from the UEFA Foundation for Children. This confirms that our efforts for the inclusion of neurodivergent children have an impact and can become a model of good practices at the European level.”
Message from UEFA President: A Safe Space for Children
Răzvan Burleanu, president of the Romanian Football Federation, underscored the role of sports in promoting social inclusion.
“Football must be accessible to everyone. The sensory lounge demonstrates that sports can be a genuine tool for inclusion and participation. We are proud of our ability to develop a project that offers equal opportunities and is now recognized internationally by the UEFA Foundation for Children. This distinction confirms that Romania can generate innovative projects with a real impact on children’s lives,” Burleanu stated.
In a message announcing the winning projects, UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin emphasized football’s impact on children’s development.
“For many children, a football field is more than just a place to play. It is where they feel safe, accepted, fulfilled, and part of something greater than themselves. The organizations we have recognized today understand this very well, and through their dedication, football becomes a language of care, trust, and possibilities, helping children not only to dream but to believe those dreams can become reality,” Ceferin conveyed.
