Premier League Launches New LGBTQ+ Initiative Following Partnership Shift

The Premier League’s collaboration with Stonewall commenced in 2014 to promote equality within football. However, the league is set to launch a new LGBTQ+ initiative this weekend, named ‘Premier League With Pride’, following the conclusion of its Rainbow Laces partnership with the charity.

From February 6 to 12, all top-flight matches will focus on this new initiative, which includes LED advertising in stadiums and customized digital artwork for each club. The shift aims to enhance visibility and inclusivity in football.

Notably, last season, Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy did not wear the rainbow armband, and Crystal Palace’s captain, Marc Guehi, made headlines for writing “I love Jesus” on his armband. Additionally, Manchester United faced challenges when one player refused to wear a jacket supporting the LGBTQ+ campaign.

Richard Masters, the Premier League’s chief executive, emphasized that “Premier League With Pride” reflects the league’s steadfast commitment to the LGBTQ+ community, aiming to create an environment where everyone feels supported and accepted in football.

Stonewall, despite the partnership shift, remains dedicated to collaborating with Premier League clubs. The new campaign will be launched in partnership with Switchboard, a national LGBTQ+ support line. Jon Holmes from Football v Homophobia expressed optimism for the upcoming matches, highlighting education as a significant component of the initiative.

In addition to branding and visuals prominently displaying the ‘Premier League With Pride’ message during matches, ball assistants will carry flags before kick-off, and managers and club officials will wear campaign pin badges. New educational resources focused on inclusion will also be introduced this month, targeting academy players from under-9s to under-21s, with mandatory sessions on equality and diversity for clubs.

Stonewall recently refreshed the Rainbow Laces campaign to encourage broader participation within the LGBTQ+ community, aspiring to establish a long-term initiative rather than one limited to specific dates. A Stonewall spokesperson noted that while their campaign has significantly advanced LGBTQ+ visibility in sport, there remains much work to do, especially as many in the community face heightened anxiety and concerns in the current climate.

The spokesperson also underscored the link between mental health and physical activity, reinforcing the necessity of the campaign to remain relevant and impactful in promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports and exercise.