The Qatar World Cup is an exciting time for the world, but one where morals and messages need to be recognised.
As shown in the news this week, many countries in Europe planned for their captain to wear a rainbow armband for the matches, in spite of Qatar’s strict and homophobic laws, including on same sex relationships. However, the FA pulled out last minute due to a threat made by FIFA/Qatar, where the captains would receive yellow cards should they wear this.
The FA Chief Executive recently released a statement, outlining the agreement between FIFA and the FA. The FA had informed FIFA of the decision to wear the One Love armband in multiple meetings in September, where a mutual agreement was reached that a fine would be imposed. However, FIFA pulled out of this agreement last minute, informing the FA that not only would captains receive a yellow card, they would also face disciplinary action - this forced all nations involved to change their armbands.
Many are questioning why FIFA would host the World Cup in Qatar in the first place, a country which has little respect for women and only respects heterosexuals. The World Cup is a football event which everyone watches, surely this is a step backwards, especially for children watching and seeing a culture which is so extremely different and saddening to see compared to ours.
Alex Scott, an ex-footballer and pundit, wore a rainbow armband pitchside whilst the teams were warming up, which has caused controversy in the news, worldwide and on Twitter.
I personally think it is so powerful seeing Alex Scott wear this. A queer, woman of colour showed solidarity and strength in a country which she could face imprisonment in. This is truly inspiring, especially for those in Qatar having to hide how they feel to match the laws, and also younger generations who watch on at role models like this.
Many have sent and shared backlash, as Scott was photographed in a picture with Putin in 2018, promoting the Russian World Cup. However, many male pundits were also featured in the picture, and face no negative comments whatsoever (and are also not taking a stand like Alex Scott is in Qatar right now).
I think that this has not only brought to light the change that needs to be made in terms of diversity, but the still ongoing sexism, racism and prejudice in the world. Hopefully, after watching the Qatar World Cup, change is made.
By Grace Wells
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