URGENT UPDATE: The San Francisco 49ers are under fire for inadequate ADA seating at Levi’s Stadium following revelations from social media influencer Kevin Ortiz, who highlighted serious accessibility issues during a game against the Atlanta Falcons.
Earlier today, Ortiz, who uses a wheelchair, shared his struggles securing ADA seating at Levi’s Stadium while visiting all NFL stadiums this season. He revealed that most accessible seats are reserved for season ticket holders and often resold at exorbitant prices, sometimes exceeding $1,000, making it difficult for wheelchair users to find affordable options.
“The normal person probably would have gotten the pushback from the first person and had just left,” Ortiz stated, expressing concern for those without social media clout who face similar challenges.
Despite his difficulties, Ortiz eventually managed to secure a seat after reaching out to stadium officials. He praised the response but emphasized that not all fans are as fortunate. “I know I had this issue, but I did have an amazing time,” he added, urging for more equitable access for all fans.
Ortiz typically buys a regular ticket and attempts to exchange it for an ADA seat on game days. While this worked at ten other stadiums, it failed at Levi’s, where the 49ers informed him that accessibility seating exchanges must be reviewed a week in advance.
“ADA seating should be first come, first serve,” Ortiz argued, advocating for changes that would allow immediate access to wheelchair users on game days. His journey is documented on Instagram, where he shares his experiences and the challenges faced by those with disabilities.
In response to the growing criticisms, the 49ers have acknowledged the issue and are reportedly working to enhance ADA seating for the next season. The team has also initiated discussions with affected families to address these significant concerns and improve accessibility at Levi’s Stadium.
Ortiz’s advocacy aims to empower wheelchair users and highlight their right to equal access at sporting events. “I just hope they have an adequate amount of seats,” he stated, emphasizing the need for inclusivity in all sports venues.
This situation underscores a critical need for systemic changes in how stadiums manage ADA seating, ensuring that all fans, regardless of their physical abilities, can enjoy the excitement of live sports. With Ortiz leading the charge, there is hope for a more inclusive future in the world of sports.
