Rhine-Ruhr 2025 is committed to creating an inclusive experience for all spectators with a wide range of services including Inclusion Volunteers, wheelchair-accessible seating, audio description, German Sign Language interpretation, hearing systems, and Safer Spaces.
Whether you need assistance navigating the venue, accessing inclusive technologies, or just a quiet place to recharge, support is available before and during your visit—just look for the icons in the event schedule or speak to a volunteer on site.
Audio description is an accessible service designed for individuals who are blind or have a visual impairment. This service provides live verbal descriptions of the visual aspects of an event, including the action, surroundings, and any important visual cues. It enhances the event experience for those who cannot fully experience the visual elements of the event. The audio description service is provided free of charge for all registered attendees since the event aims to ensure equal access to all spectators. Audio description services will only be available in German.
What is Provided in Audio Description
Audio description involves live narration by trained describers who will explain key aspects of the event, such as:
Action occurring on the stage or field.
Descriptions of the setting, atmosphere, and other important visual elements.
Non-verbal interactions, body language, and emotional moments.
The narration provides a ‘visual language’ of the sporting events, capturing not only key actions but also the emotions of the athletes and the atmosphere in the venue.
Which Events Offer Audio Description
Audio description will be available for key sports events and cultural performances that have high visual content. Some examples include:
Opening Ceremony
Finals in sports such as athletics, swimming, basketball, tennis, badminton, beach volleyball and volleyball
A detailed list of events offering audio description is included in the Inclusive Competition Schedule (refer to graphic above). Additional details will also be provided on the individual ticket pages during the booking process.
Ticket Booking for Audio Description
When purchasing your ticket, you can select the ‘Audio Description’ option under the category ‘Inclusive Services’. Buying a ticket in this category ensures access to the service and helps the event team plan appropriate support. If you have any questions or face technical issues, contact inclusion@rhineruhr2025.com.
How to Access the Service
Audio description is delivered through the Mycrocast Webplayer, accessible via our event website/app or Mycrocast app (iOS, Android). The service can be streamed directly on your own mobile phone and earphones, using a dedicated Wi-Fi network available at the venue. We recommend downloading the Mycrocast app before arriving at the venue for the smoothest experience and please bring your own earphones. Beware external devices are not needed, and nothing needs to be borrowed on site. Inclusion Volunteers at the venue will be available to assist with connecting to the Wi-Fi and setting up the stream if needed. Note that audio description can also be followed remotely via the live stream, so spectators can listen from home or anywhere they are.
