English Premier League to End Support for LGBTQ+ Campaigns

English Premier League to End Support for LGBTQ+ Campaigns

The English Premier League (EPL) has announced that, starting from the 2025/26 season, it will no longer take part in campaigns promoting and supporting issues related to same-sex relationships (LGBTQ+) in football.

In the past, it was customary for team captains to wear rainbow-coloured armbands as a sign of encouraging acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals. However, following the expiration of an agreement between LGBTQ+ organizations and the Football Association in England, the League Board has confirmed it will not renew the partnership.

According to the official statement, the decision comes after an evaluation revealed that the campaigns had not achieved their intended goals. Instead of increasing unity and acceptance, there has been a rise in divided opinions and social tensions, affecting the image and cohesion of the nation among certain fans and stakeholders who do not hold a positive view of such matters.

The Board emphasized that it will continue to support other initiatives aimed at promoting equality, respect, and inclusion — but not those directly involving same-sex relationship advocacy.