Freedom One Life has announced the competitors for its inaugural Race Across Europe; a first of its kind challenge that will see four disabled people racing in Freedom One Life 5 Series powerchairs from London to Turin, via four different public transport routes this summer.

Here, they tell Able Magazine all about it.

When we launched Race Around Europe earlier this year, we expected a handful of adventure-seeking applicants. Instead, we were blown away by the passion, creativity, and sense of adventure that came pouring in. So much so, we couldn’t choose just three.

 

What started as a plan for three participants has now grown to four, thanks to the overwhelming number of powerful and personality-packed applications received. Over four days, the chosen competitors will travel across Europe by public transport, navigating cities, borders, and accessibility barriers, all while taking on daily challenges and
scoring points for the chance to win a €1,000 prize.

 

Why this competition matters
Race Across Europe was created to show what’s possible when disabled people have access to the right support and equipment, and to challenge the outdated narratives that often surround mobility and independence.

 

Whether they’re navigating train times, or taking in the amazing views along the way, the Race Around Europe isn’t just about who gets there fi rst. It’s about showing what’s possible when disabled people have the tools, trust, and tech to go wherever they want.

 

Meet the competitors

 

Haydn
Co-founder of Happy Smiles Training, delivers disability awareness workshops and is racing alongside his close friend and business partner, Alex.

Kate
This cheese-loving bookworm and mum of two is embracing adventure after a few years spent mostly at home.

Oli
A competitive powerchair footballer for Newcastle United and England, ready to put his Series 5 to the test over new terrain.

Katharina
This fearless Berlin-based theology student, has enjoyed skydiving and dancing, and is always chasing her next adventure.

Each of their journeys will be filmed and the show will be released later this year.

 

Putting disabled people front and centre
Founder of Freedom One Life, Alex Papanikolaou, said: “I constantly hear how difficult and inaccessible travel is for disabled people, so I wanted to make a big, bold statement to really show what’s possible. With the right equipment, planning and support, we can lead the adventure!

 

The four competitors we’ve chosen each bring something totally unique and I can’t wait to see how they take on this challenge. They’re not just racing across Europe, they’re changing the conversation around what freedom and accessible travel really looks like.

 

We’d also like to give a huge thank you to everyone who applied; your energy, humour and drive blew us away and we value each and every one of your applications. Running a business is full of difficult decisions, but this was a particularly hard one to make!”

 

What’s next?
Thanks to the phenomenal response, Freedom One Life has already confirmed the competition will return in 2026. To follow the racers’ progress this year, get behind-the-scenes updates and be the first to watch the show, follow: @freedomonelifeltd on Instagram and YouTube.

 

Visit: www.freedomonelife.com