The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Airbnb have announced a new partnership that will extend through to 2028.
It will span across nine years and five different Games, providing accommodation for spectators and fans. The partnership aims to generate hundreds of thousands of new hosts across the platform.
The IOC says the partnership will “reduce costs for Olympic Games organisers and stakeholders, minimising the need for construction of new accommodation infrastructure for the Olympic Games period and generating direct revenue for local hosts and communities.”
It goes on to say that this will aid its sustainability objectives, which are tied to the Olympic Agenda 2020.
In addition, the IOC and Airbnb will launch Airbnb Olympian Experiences. This new service encourages athletes around the world to sign up as hosts, and will offers guests experiences such as training or exploring a city with an athlete.
Working together with the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), Airbnb will also promote accommodation that supports accessibility for people with disabilities or other accessibility needs.
IOC President Thomas Bach (pictured right) said: “This innovative partnership underpins our strategy to ensure that the efficient staging of the Olympic Games is sustainable and leaves a legacy for the host community. With Airbnb’s support, we will also develop new opportunities for athletes around the world to develop their own direct revenue streams through the promotion of physical activity and the Olympic values.
“Through this partnership, there will be a direct benefit for athletes over and above the USD$5bn the IOC is distributing during this Olympiad for their benefit, to Organising Committees and sports organisations around the world.”
Airbnb Co-Founder Joe Gebbia (pictured left) said: “Airbnb and the IOC have a strong track record in creating and accommodating the world’s greatest events. 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.”
