Newcastle United and Sela Unveil Revolutionary Haptic Technology Shirts for Deaf Supporters

Newcastle United and Sela have teamed up to unveil a groundbreaking new initiative that will allow deaf fans to experience the electric atmosphere of St James’ Park using haptic technology. The club sponsor, Sela, is supporting the ’Unsilence the Crowd’ campaign by providing specially designed shirts for around 15 mascots and fans during Saturday’s game against Tottenham.

The haptic technology embedded in the shirts will transform the noise of the stadium into real-time touch sensations, allowing deaf fans to feel the excitement and energy of the crowd. This initiative is a game-changer for football accessibility and has the potential to revolutionize the matchday experience for fans with hearing loss.

Newcastle United’s Chief Commercial Officer, Peter Silverstone, expressed his excitement about the partnership with Sela and the positive impact it will have on the club’s supporters. The collaboration with RNID, a national charity supporting deaf and hearing-impaired individuals, further highlights the club’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

Sela has committed to providing this technology at all future Newcastle United home games, with hopes of inspiring other football clubs to follow suit. Ibrahim Mohtaseb, Senior Vice President of Sela, emphasized the importance of making live football matches accessible to everyone who loves the game.

The ’Unsilence the Crowd’ campaign is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration in the world of sports. By embracing haptic technology, Newcastle United and Sela are paving the way for a more inclusive and immersive football experience for all fans, regardless of their hearing abilities.