FIFA must immediately reverse its “hurtful” decision to “punish players” for wearing pro LGBTQ+ arm bands Plaid Cymru Leader Adam Price has said.
It was announced early on Monday morning that England, Wales and other European nations will not wear the OneLove armband at the World Cup in Qatar because of the threat of players being booked.
Wales is due to play its first game in the tournament against the USA at 7 pm GMT today – after qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in 64 years.
Plaid Cymru Leader Adam Price – who is openly gay – said that FIFA’s decision was “hateful” and “demeaning” and demanded they reverse their decision and defend the rights of LGBT+ people “no matter where the game is held”.
Mr Price praised FAW for their hard work in making the game “safe and inclusive” and reiterated Plaid Cymru’s absolute solidarity with the global LGBT+ community.
Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price said:
“This is a World Cup where everyone is supposed to be “welcome” – unless, of course, you are LGBTQ+ or an ally.
“FIFA’s decision to punish players for simply wearing One Love band is hateful and demeaning. They must immediately reverse their hurtful decision.
“The Football Association of Wales have worked hard to make the game safe and inclusive. That message of love and inclusivity must be carried into the world without fear or hate. FIFA must defend the rights of LGBT+ people no matter where the game is held.
“Plaid Cymru stands in absolute solidarity with the global LGBT+ community against bigotry, intolerance, and discrimination.
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