In the midst of the Olympic buzz that’s currently being generated in anticipation of Tokyo 2020, Airbnb has announced a nine-year, five-Game partnership with the International Olympic Committee which will see the company being at the forefront of accommodation and experiences.
Announced recently, the partnership is said to be in line with the IOC’s strategy to seek travel options that are more sustainable and socially inclusive. The agreement includes accommodation provisions that will reduce costs for Olympic Games organisers and minimise the need for construction of new accommodation infrastructures, as well as providing revenue for local hosts and communities. According to Airbnb, the move will also see the company working to increase accommodation that supports accessibility for people with disabilities. As a global partner, Airbnb will now support the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, the Olympic Winter Games in Beijing 2022, the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, the Olympic Winter Games Milano-Cortina 2026, and the Olympic Games in Los Angeles 2028.
“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,” said Joe Gebbia, Airbnb Co-Founder.
The partnership is expected to generate hundreds of thousands of new hosts over the nine years. The IOC and Airbnb will also launch Airbnb Olympian Experiences, where athletes themselves will be able to interact with guests and lead them on unique tours and experiences. Due to be launched in 2020, it will promote sport and physical activity, and will include options such as the chance to train with an Olympian as well as exploring a city with an athlete. The company has created a platform to help training athletes interested in becoming hosts.
Read More: What happens to Olympic stadiums when the Games are over?
