Qatar Airways Elevates Social Responsibility Efforts At The Milan Derby, Providing Children With Visual Impairments A Unique Chance To Experience Football’s Biggest Moments Up Close

Published on November 26, 2025

Qatar Airways has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to social responsibility by offering a group of children with visual impairments an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of football’s most thrilling spectacles—the Milan Derby. As part of their ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity, the airline provided these children with a chance to witness the excitement of the game up close, ensuring that even those with limited sight could enjoy the thrill of live football. This initiative is not only a testament to Qatar Airways’ dedication to making sport accessible for all, but also highlights the power of football as a universal language, capable of uniting people from diverse backgrounds and abilities. By doing so, Qatar Airways is proving that social responsibility goes beyond philanthropy—it’s about creating moments that inspire,

Qatar Airways has introduced “Qatar Airways United,” a global social initiative developed in collaboration with renowned football icon Rio Ferdinand. This project connects Ferdinand with the airline’s prestigious sports partners to create community-building opportunities aimed at fostering confidence and ambition among young people.

The initiative was launched during the Milan Derby at the iconic San Siro Stadium on November 23, 2025. Ferdinand was welcomed by Inter Milan and the local social responsibility organization, Real Eyes Sport. Through this partnership, Qatar Airways provided children with visual impairments the unique chance to witness one of football’s most legendary matchups up close.

Inter Milan’s Vice President, Javier Zanetti, known for his dedication to supporting underprivileged youth and offering mentorship opportunities, was also present. During the event, the children were able to experience the excitement of the game from the pitch side and meet the players, making the occasion even more memorable.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “Sport has a unique ability to open doors for young people from every walk of life. We are proud to support programmes like this one, which use the power of sport to create connection, unity and real impact. We believe that every young person, no matter where they come from, has the chance to create and achieve greatness. This program equips the next generation with the skills and tools to enable them to pursue excellence in their chosen paths and we are pleased to be part of it.”

Rio Ferdinand said: “Sport has given me a passport to travel the world, see new cultures, and experience countries I never would have otherwise. It shaped who I am. Through Qatar Airways United, I want to help young people build that same confidence and ambition – showing them that sport can open doors, broaden horizons, and create opportunities that last a lifetime.”

In the upcoming Qatar Airways United program, Ferdinand will be accompanied by a group of children supported by Education Above All, who will participate in a unique experience during the Formula 1® Qatar Airways Grand Prix from 28-30 November 2025. On Friday, the group will receive exclusive behind-the-scenes access on the first day of the race weekend, and on Sunday, they will have the chance to watch the final race from the grandstands.

This initiative aims to expand the airline’s renowned sports partnerships to connect young people in underserved communities with exciting events, including:

• The French Championship match between Paris Saint-Germain and Marseille in Paris, February 2026
• The UEFA Champions League Final in Budapest, May 2026
• The FIFA World Cup 26™ Final in New York, July 2026

Through Qatar Airways, Ferdinand will invite youth from the host cities to witness these prestigious events, fostering a sense of community. The football icon will share his motivational stories and personal experiences, highlighting the values central to sports. This series will premiere on his official YouTube channel, @rioferdinandpresents, and Qatar Airways’ YouTube channel, @qatarairways. It will also be featured on Qatar Airways’ award-winning Oryx One in-flight entertainment system, aiming to inspire millions of passengers globally.

Qatar Airways has enhanced its social responsibility efforts by providing children with visual impairments the chance to experience the Milan Derby up close. This initiative highlights the airline’s commitment to inclusivity, allowing these children to enjoy the excitement of football’s biggest moments despite their visual challenges. It’s a powerful example of how sports can be made accessible to all.

Qatar Airways has an extensive portfolio of high-profile global sports partnerships, including FIFA, UEFA Champions League, Formula 1®, Paris Saint-Germain, FC Internazionale Milano, AFC, Novak Djokovic, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), MotoGP, the IRONMAN Triathlon Series, the French Rugby Team – Section Paloise, the Brooklyn Nets NBA Team, and various other disciplines such as Australian football,