An app which offers free public transport as part of the match day experience is set to be launched by UEFA ahead of next summer's EURO2020 finals in Glasgow – and across Europe.
Despite the finals being hosted in 12 cities all over the continent, the European game's governing body is determined to make going to matches as hassle-free, colourful and enjoyable as possible as it seeks to create a real festival of football and a 60th birthday party to remember. And, just like at any good birthday party, there's a card involved.
Not only will the cutting-edge app store match tickets, it will also unlock a digital travelcard entitling supporters to free transport. Meanwhile, an interactive map will help to plot journeys from carnival-style events involving street performers and musicians in the Fan Zone at Merchant City and the Football Village in George Square.
Some of the app's other features will include daily personalised top tips detailing important event and travel information, city and stadium guides, while live scores, standings and reports from the tournament will keep fans abreast of what's happening on the pitch.
READ MORE: UEFA pledges to make EURO2020 environmentally conscious tournament
“For UEFA EURO 2020, we are creating a new experience driven by the fans,” says UEFA Events SA CEO Martin Kallen. “Combining fan insight and the latest in digital technology, our focus is to deliver a personalised experience for every fan.
"This starts with the implementation of digital ticketing for specific target groups at every game. The digital match ticket will be complemented by a range of digital services all designed to help fans make the best use of their time – whether attending the match, organising their travel and accommodation, or sampling what each host city has to offer.
“This has been a significant undertaking and we appreciate the support provided by the host cities in making this a reality – unprecedented across so many countries during a final tournament, and a crucial element in encouraging fans to use public transport services.”
At the heart of the innovation is the fan experience but UEFA is also partnering with host cities to look beyond just the 90 minutes on the pitch, and beyond the fans attending the matches.
Free public transport for Hampden ticket holders at EURO2020 https://t.co/wVXSJtYM0k pic.twitter.com/HHHcUUkoMK
— Herald & Times Sport (@HandTsport) November 30, 2019
“The UEFA Festival provides all visitors, families and residents alike, with a mix of entertainment, music, culture and festivity – with each location having a distinct local feel, in line with the unique hosting structure of the finals,” Kallen adds.
“For the 60th anniversary of the finals, we wanted to ensure that EURO offers something for everyone, to be more inclusive than ever before. For people who do not have a ticket to the game or who want to soak up the festive atmosphere, fan zones in each of the host cities provide a fun place to watch all the action.
"For those fans heading to the stadium, the last kilometre of their journey will include fan marches and a wave of live entertainment performances, all playing a key part in building the atmosphere during the last countdown to kick-off.”
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