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      What did Iker Casillas say on Twitter?

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      IKER CASILLAS has come under fire after a tweet was posted to his account that made it appear as if he was coming out as gay.The former Real Madrid goalkeeper seems to have deleted the post shortly afterwards, with many fans commenting on the controversy.
      What did Iker Casillas say on Twitter?
      A post was made on Iker Casillas’ Twitter account on Sunday, October 9, 2022, saying: “I hope you respect me: I’m gay.”
      Spanish publication AS claimed that this was a bid to stop tabloids in Spain writing about the 2010 World Cup winner.
      However, in the afternoon of the same day, Iker Casillas tweeted once again, this time claiming that he was not the one that made the previous post, but that he was hacked.
      He said: “Hacked account.
      Iker Casillas and Carles Puyol became friends after being rivals playing for Real Madrid and Barcelona respectivelyCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
      “Luckily everything in order.
      “Apologies to all my followers.
      READ MORE ON IKER CASILLAS
      “And of course, more apologies to the LGBT community.”
      In March 2021, Casillas confirmed that he and his ex-wife, sports journalist Sara Carbonero, had parted ways, after being married for five years and having two children.
      In September 2022, he was rumoured to be dating Gerard Pique’s former partner Shakira, however, he put an end to the claims.
      What was Carles Puyol’s response?
      Former Barcelona centre-back Carles Puyol was one of the highest-profile people to respond to Casillas’ tweet.
      Most read in Football
      He said: “The time has come to tell our story, Iker.”
      The tweet gathered many furious replies from Twitter users such as Jonny Sharples – a popular England fan.
      He said: “Iker Casillas and Carles Puyol’s tweets were pathetic and all they’ve achieved is to embolden the homophobic attitudes that are already rife within football and within football fandom.
      “Slow progress is being made, things like this simply make it even slower.”
      As a sport, football has been under scrutiny for its culture and the lack of homosexual players in the male game.
      As of 2022, there is only one player that is openly gay and is playing in England’s top four divisions.
      That is Jake Daniels, a forward for Blackpool who came out in May 2022.
      Meanwhile, some argue that is very difficult for male footballers to come out as gay because bodies such as FIFA do not take them into consideration.
      Read More on The Sun
      The next FIFA World Cup, kicking off in November 2022, will be held in Qatar – a country in which laws prohibit anyone to be lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender and it punishes any same-sex relations.
      ITV argued in an article that this reason is why there are more female footballers openly gay rather than male because their tournaments are not held in such countries. More

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      Iker Casillas claims he was hacked after Real Madrid and Spain legend tweeted ‘I’m gay’ to millions of fans

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      SPAIN and Real Madrid legend Iker Casillas tweeted that he is gay – before later deleting the post.He later claimed to have been hacked.
      Iker Casillas has come out as gayCredit: Getty
      Sara Carbonero and Casillas officially divorced in 2021Credit: Instagram @saracarbonero

      The World Cup-winning former goalkeeper appeared to come out, tweeting: “I hope you respect me: I’m gay.”
      He told fans via his Twitter account but did not put the same message on his Instagram or Facebook pages.
      He did not further address the comment and then deleted it – not before it had over 250,000 likes.
      He then tweeted: “Hacked account. Luckily everything in order. Apologies to all my followers. And of course, more apologies to the LGBT community.”

      Reports in Spain suggested it may have been posted in response to rife magazine rumours about his post-divorce dating life.
      It comes a little over a year after he split from his wife.
      The retired goalie and presenter and model Sara Carbonero admitted their love had “taken separate paths” back in March 2021 but said they would remain close to continue the “marvellous job” of raising their two children.
      Following the tweet, Casillas was sent thousands of messages of support while former Spain team-mate Carles Puyol replied: “It’s time to tell our story, Iker.” along with a heart and kiss emoji.
      Most read in Football
      The post comes just days after he furiously shut down rumours linking him romantically with Shakira – who herself recently split from footballer partner Gerard Pique.
      Casillas and his former wife famously kissed on air during a post-match interview after Spain won the World Cup and have helped each other through serious health scares during their five-year marriage.
      Former Spanish international Casillas, who had to quit football after a heart attack, said in an emotional Instagram post at the time: “Both Sara and I feel enormously proud of the family we are and of having shared a love that has filled us with happiness during all our years together.
      “Today our love as a couple takes different but not distant paths since we’ll continue together in the marvellous task of continuing to be devoted parents as we have been up until now.
      “This is a well-considered decision which we have taken through mutual agreement.”
      The 41-year-old, father to Martin, nine, and Lucas, six, with Sara, added: “The respect, affection and friendship will remain for ever.
      “Our priority is, through affection and compromise, to share the wellbeing and education of our children and protect them so they grow in a stable and healthy environment.
      Casillas was captain when Spain won the World Cup in 2010Credit: AFP – Getty
      He and ex-partner Sara Carbonero were never afraid to show their affection in publicCredit: Reuters
      “With these words we ask you please to respect our privacy in this moment of change.
      “These will be the only public words we issue for the time being and in the future.
      “Many thanks for your understanding.”
      The identically-worded statements were posted alongside a photo of the couple in happier times, showing Sara with her arm round Iker’s neck as he touched her hand.
      Casillas came through the academy at Real Madrid and spent 25 years with the club, making 725 first-team appearances.
      He won five LaLiga crowns and three Champions League, captaining the side before leaving in 2015 to join Porto – where he spent the final four seasons of his career.
      Read More on The Sun
      The 167-cap Spain international also enjoyed huge success for his country as the undisputed No1 during their golden generation that won Euro 2008, the 2010 World Cup and then Euro 2012 as captain.
      Blackpool teenager Jake Daniels came out in May following the likes of American Collin Martin and Australian star Josh Cavallo.
      Casillas came through the academy and starred for Real MadridCredit: EPA
      El Clasico rival but Spain team-mate Carles Puyol tweeted his supportCredit: AFP More

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      ‘Blown away by support’ – Zander Murray becomes first openly gay footballer in Scottish football since Justin Fashanu

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      SCOTTISH striker Zander Murray has been “blown away by support” after coming out as gay.The Gala Fairydean Rovers ace, 30, has become Scottish football’s first openly gay player since Justin Fashanu played for Airdrieonians and Hearts in the 1990s.
      Zander Murray has come out as gayCredit: David Henderson
      The Gala Fairydean ace is nearing 100 career goalsCredit: David Henderson
      Speaking to the club’s official website, Murray said: “It feels like the weight of the world is now off my shoulders.
      “The lads at the club have been so supportive. Before coming out, you think people will turn against you and you think the worst – I have been blown away by the support.”
      Murray went on to reveal that attending his first pride event while on holiday over the summer inspired him to come out.
      He added: “I have always been that closeted never to go to these things, but I loved it.
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      “The vibe was brilliant and everyone was just being free and happy and it was great to just be me.
      “I also want to help other players who are struggling with this as it isn’t easy for men, especially footballers, to deal with.”
      Speaking exclusively to the Scottish Sun, Murray admitted that he hopes to inspire other athletes to feel able to openly be themselves.
      He said: “If I can inspire one person, I have done my job.
      Most read in Football
      “I know there are other gay men playing football in Scotland, in the leagues, and I hope this gives them strength to speak out.
      “A couple of sportsmen have messaged me with support, and I had no idea they were gay.
      “I was like ‘bloody hell, wow, brilliant’, and it has helped me to do it myself.”
      On the response of his Gala team-mates, Murray said: “I was petrified thinking they would care, but no one gave a monkeys.
      “Gareth Rodger [captain] and Danny Galbraith [vice-captain] have been really sound and respectful, the chairman, everyone. It means a lot to me.
      “Because I wasn’t accepting it, I struggled with it and I used to try and batter myself in the gym to fight the demons and pretend I would be straight.
      “I am now at the point where my life is good, and I don’t feel I need to pretend anymore.”
      I am one goal away from 100 career goalsZander Murray
      On his football career Murray, who followed referees Craig Napier and Lloyd Wilson coming out over the summer, added: “It’s probably taken me so long because of football – I would definitely say my sexuality has probably hindered me a wee bit.
      “I’m currently with Gala and people were probably a little bit surprised that I stayed with them this season – I broke their record for goal scoring in the league last year and I am one goal away from 100 career goals.
      “But because of me, my sexuality, I’ll be honest I would feel a bit uncomfortable moving away because of that.
      “I have seriously struggled for years because I am not your typical gay guy.” More

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      I’m a gay soccer player and would definitely play for USMNT at World Cup despite homosexuality being illegal in Qatar

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      WHEN US soccer star Collin Martin came out as gay in 2018, he was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from fans and teammates.The San Diego Loyal star, 27, now plies his trade in the USL Championship after MLS stints at Minnesota and DC United.
      Collin Martin, 27, came out as gay in 2018Credit: Instagram @cm7md
      The then-Minnesota United player was overwhelmed by the responseCredit: Instagram @cm7md
      He says he WOULD play for the USMNT in Qatar if called-up – despite the country’s laws banning homosexual relationshipsCredit: Instagram @cm7md
      Martin is a keen LBGT campaignerCredit: Instagram @cm7md
      When he made the brave decision to come out of the closet, Martin was the only openly gay male athlete in high-level US sport.
      He told the US Sun: “I didn’t know quite how big of a deal it was going to be coming out.
      “There was a lot of anxiety and honestly, I was scared to see how a lot of fans and the reaction would be of other players on other teams.
      “To open it up to the broader sport, it was a lot for me.
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      “I wasn’t quite sure what the reaction would be, but I knew deep down, on a personal level, I was ready to share the news.”
      Martin, a tough-tackling midfielder who grew up in Chevy Chase, ML, is a former USMNT under-20 international.
      And he was as delighted as any US soccer fan to see Gregg Berhalter’s Stars & Stripes reach this November’s finals in Qatar.
      But male homosexuality remains a crime in the country, with jail sentences for same-sex relationships as high as SEVEN years.
      FIFA top boss Giani Infantino has insisted “all are welcome in Qatar”, but critics have slammed the country’s human rights record and lack of access to free speech.
      ‘WOULD I BE ALLOWED TO PLAY?’
      Now 27, Martin has yet to gain a full USMNT cap but says he would “definitely” go to the World Cup if called up – not only to unify, but to show he is proud of who he is.
      Martin continued: “I would definitely go to the World Cup if I was called up. Obviously, that’s an extreme hypothetical, but it would be an honor.
      “I think that I would try to honor the community in a certain way – the gay community – and I would do it respectfully.
      “I would make sure that it is known that a gay player is participating at the World Cup, and that there’s no issue with it and that I need to be respected.”
      In 2020, Qatar assured visitors the kingdom would welcome LGBTQIA+ fans and they will be free to fly the rainbow flag at matches.
      But Martin is keen to stress that human rights issues on “multiple levels” for citizens of the country need to be addressed.
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      He continued: “I think it’s not just the gay community that is concerned with the host country being accepting and I think there’s been a tonne of different issues that have arose from holding the World Cup in Qatar.
      “There are human rights questions on multiple levels and women’s rights and how the country views and accepts women.
      “Obviously, in my case, there is some concern and justgenuine safety concerns like ‘am I going to be allowed to play in this country if I was in the World Cup?’
      “‘Would I be accepted?’ ‘What kind of abuse would I get from fans in the stadiums?’
      “I think there is definitely some work to be done and definitely there’s some concern there, but if people can’t go to the stadiums, and feeling like they can’t go with their significant others, that’s an issue.
      “The focus should be on supporting their country, enjoyingthemselves, having a good time and being allowed to enjoy the game of football.
      “It’s a sport for everyone and it’s something that should be enjoyed by all.”
      Since his announcement in 2018, few players have followed Martin’s lead in feeling comfortable enough to come out of the closet.
      ‘I COULDN’T FULLY ACCEPT MYSELF’
      But the Maryland-native was delighted when 17-year-old Blackpool star Jake Daniels became the first British footballer to publically come out as gay since 1990.
      He told talkSPORT: “Just to see a player in the UK come out at any level and at any age is incredible.
      “But for Jake to be 17 years old and have the courage to share that with the world is really beyond belief.”
      Progress then, but research from BonusFinder suggests there is still some way to go.
      The study reveals more than 40 percent of fans believe soccer players should “hide their sexuality” because it’s not “relevant”.
      Martin continued: “I would say that [fans] don’t realize how detrimental it is to be in the closet and not being free and accepting yourself, but also sharing that with the world.
      “There’s a big positive impact that happens on a personal level when you share the news with people, and I feel like I couldn’t completely accept myself until I came out on a public level.
      “So, I think what I would tell these fans is that a player when they’re liberated off the field, and when they accept themselves, is going to show a better product on the field.
      “They’re going to enjoy themselves more, and hopefully reach a new potential with them not being in the closet.”
      One in five Americans who responded to the survey indicated they would stop supporting their team if it included an out and proud LGBTQIA+ player.
      But Martin – who now plays in the USL Championship – believes the MLS is on the right track by educating fans in grounds, with others encouraged to follow their lead.
      He continued: “The governing bodies have a big responsibility to change attitudes, and also just to make environments safe.
      “When I was in the MLS, one of the things I loved was that before every game, prominent players would get on the big screen, and they would say homophobia is not going to be accepted in the stadium and racism is not going to be accepted in the stadium.
      “There were certain guidelines and certain things that just aren’t going to be tolerated, and to see the biggest players in our league step out and create a safe environment before every game, meant a lot to me.
      “I think that’s an initiative that the MLS did and there’s different ways that governing bodies, or leagues, or teams themselves can do to make sure that the stadiums and places in sport are more welcoming and safe.”
      The USMNT face England, Iran and Wales in their World Cup group this fall.
      *Collin Martin has partnered with BonusFinder and LGBT HERO to understand representation and attitudes towards the LGBTQIA+ community in US professional team sport.
      Martin now plays for San Diego Loyal in the USL ChampionshipCredit: Instagram @cm7md
      The former US under-20 international is hopefully more players will feel confident enough to follow his leadCredit: Getty More

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      Ex-Brazil star Richarlyson comes out as bisexual but laments homophobia in football and his homeland

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      FORMER Brazil international footballer Richarlyson has come out as bisexual. But he hit out at the ongoing homophobia in the sport and in his homeland.
      Former footballer Richarlyson revealed he is bisexual on a podcast in BrazilCredit: Getty
      The Brazilian retired from playing last year but is hoping to step into commentatingCredit: INSTAGRAM / @richarlyson
      The two-cap Selecao star had been reluctant to reveal his sexuality due to the possible fallout it could have.
      Richarlyson opened up on dating both men and women in his appearance on the Nos Armarios dos Vestiarios podcast.
      The 39-year-old said: “All my life I’ve been asked if I’m gay.
      “I’ve had a relationship with a man and I’ve had a relationship with a woman as well.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}AU ROOVOIR .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Rooney QUITS as Derby boss despite Rams’ chiefs pleading with him to stay
      “But then I speak here today and soon the news will be printed, ‘Richarlyson is bisexual’.
      “And the meme is ready. They will say, ‘Wow, but swear? I had no idea.’
      “Man, I’m normal, I have wants and desires.
      “I’ve dated a man, I’ve dated a woman, but so what? What are you going to do? Anything.”
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      Richarlyson is doubtful his honesty will have much impact or lead to positive change in Brazil, where footballers are idolised but homophobia is rife.
      He continued: “It’s going to paint a headline that Richarlyson talked about on a podcast that he’s bisexual. Nice.
      “And then it will rain with reports, and most importantly, which is the agenda, it will not change, which is the issue of homophobia.
      “Unfortunately, the world is not prepared to have this discussion and deal with it naturally.
      “Do you understand why I think it’s unnecessary for you to label yourself sometimes?
      “There is a more important issue, there are people dying, Brazil is the country that kills the most homosexuals.
      “And we are here talking about football, okay, but football is a small business.
      The midfielder made his two appearances for Brazil in 2008, including one against IrelandCredit: Sportsfile
      He is concerned about the fallout his announcement will have within the Brazilian football communityCredit: INSTAGRAM / @richarlyson
      “Ah, but your speech can help. No, it won’t help.
      “Who is Richarlyson, for God’s sake?! I am a mere ordinary citizen, who had a nice history in football, but I will not be able to move mountains to stop these crimes, to stop homophobia in football.”
      Richarlyson enjoyed a fine career as a holding midfielder in his home country, especially with giants Sao Paulo and Atletico Mineiro.
      He won three Serie A titles and the Club World Cup with Sao Paulo before Copa Libertadores glory with Mineiro in 2013.
      And in 2008, he earned both of his caps for the Brazil national team.
      He decided to retire for good in 2021 with his heart set on moving into commentating – but feared coming out could affect his post-playing career.
      ‘TODAY I FELT COMFORTABLE SPEAKING’
      Richarlyson added: “I didn’t want to be ruled out because of my sexuality, that I’m bisexual.
      “I wanted people to see me as a mirror for everything I’ve achieved in my work.
      “I never put my sexuality ahead of my work, and I never would. And I’m not saying that now because I stopped playing.
      “A lot of mean people will say that, which I said now because I don’t play anymore. Not.
      “I never spoke because it was not my priority, as it was not today, but today I felt comfortable speaking.” More

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      in Athletics

      Dame Kelly Holmes reveals she’s gay as brave Olympics hero, 52, vows to be her ‘real self’ after mental health trauma

      by

      OLYMPICS legend Dame Kelly Holmes has revealed she’s gay – after living a “secret life” for decades.The 52-year-old sporting hero, who is in a happy relationship, says she wanted to “scream” about her sexuality for years – but felt unable to speak openly.
      Olympics hero Dame Kelly Holmes has revealed she’s gay and in a relationship after struggling with her mental health for yearsCredit: Getty
      The national treasure suffered episodes of self-harm as she feared being outedCredit: AFP
      She bravely chose to break her silence during Pride month after “dark times” when she considered taking her own life.
      Dame Kelly, who served in the Army, told the Sunday Mirror she first realised she was gay when she kissed another female soldier at the age of just 17.
      But she bottled up her true feelings for years – and suffered episodes of self-harm.
      Even her celebrations after she won gold in the 800 and 1,500 metres at Athens were spoiled as she feared being outed.
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      The national treasure told the paper: “I needed to do this now, for me. It was my decision. I’m nervous about saying it.
      “I feel like I’m going to explode with excitement. Sometimes I cry with relief.”
      Dame Kelly feared she’d “still be in trouble” if she’d admitted to being gay while in the Army, although family and close friends have known of her sexuality for years.
      She joined the Women’s Royal Army Corps in 1988, a month before her 18th birthday.
      At the time, the forces had a ban on LGBT soldiers, which was only lifted in 2000.
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      After her first kiss with another woman, Kelly wrote to her stepdad to tell him what had happened.
      “I was confused and a bit scared of what it meant,” she said.
      “But he accepted it straight away”.
      She went on to have relationships with other female soldiers during her 10 years of service, risking court martial, and came out to the rest of her family in 1997.
      Between the ages of 27 and 32, she was in a relationship, but broke it off so she could focus on the Olympics.
      By 33, however, her mental health began to suffer.
      In 2003, she self-harmed before the World Championships final in France, running a tap to drown out the sound of her tears.
      “I felt I had no control over myself,” she said.
      “Yet at the same time I had this pull to succeed, thinking, ‘If I win gold it’ll all be ok’.”
      I feel like I’m going to explode with excitement. Sometimes I cry with relief
      Despite her grief, she didn’t ask for support as she was terrified of being dropped from Team GB.
      In 2020, she suffered Covid and a breakdown – and contacted a military LGBTQ+ leader to ask if she could still face sanctions for her Army relationships.
      When the advocate reassured her, Kelly says: “I felt like I could breathe again.
      “One little call could have saved 28 years of heartache.”
      .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1h37p88{background-color:rgba(236,245,247,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-xpuujo{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(149,199,208,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-tqcu81{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(149,199,208,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-bq4915{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,97,108,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-bq4915:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}KITCH YOU NOT .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}The five kitchen appliances making you spend more and how to stop it
      She is now working on a doc called Being Me about her experiences.

      For more information on how to seek support if you’re affected by the issues in this article, visit NHS.uk

      Dame Kelly first knew she was gay when she kissed another female soldier at the age of 17Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk
      She immediately wrote to her stepfather, who was supportive, and has had relationships with womenCredit: Getty Hulton
      But she’s now come out to her millions of British fans to celebrate Pride monthCredit: BBC / Blast! Films LtdYOU’RE NOT ALONEEVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide.

      It doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.
      It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.
      And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.
      Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.
      That is why The Sun launched the You’re Not Alone campaign.
      The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.
      Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.
      If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support:

      CALM, www.thecalmzone.net, 0800 585 858
      Heads Together, www.headstogether.org.uk
      Mind, www.mind.org.uk, 0300 123 3393
      Papyrus, www.papyrus-uk.org, 0800 068 41 41
      Samaritans, www.samaritans.org, 116 123
      Movember, www.uk.movember.com More

    • 200 Shares129 Views

      in Motorsport

      Lewis Hamilton tells Mercedes team to replace logo with ‘Pride Star’ for remainder of F1 season

      by

      LEWIS HAMILTON has told his Mercedes team to replace their famous silver three-pointed star with a “Pride Star” for the remainder of the season.Merc have decided to use a rainbow version on the nose of their F1 car for the next three races in Baku, Montreal and Silverstone to celebrate Pride Month.
      Lewis Hamilton has called for Mercedes to use a ‘Pride Star’ instead of their usual logo for the remainder of the F1 seasonCredit: Getty
      Mercedes have changed their badge to rainbow colours in support of the LGBTQ+ community for the next three racesCredit: Instagram / @mercedesamgf1
      But Hamilton would like to see the team extend their support for the LGBTQ+ community for the rest of the year.
      However, that could cause potential problems with races in Singapore and Abu Dhabi, where same-sex relationships are outlawed.
      Hamilton shared a reel from Mercedes’ official Instagram account showing the Pride Star being applied with the seven-time World Champion saying: “Let’s use it for the rest of the year.”
      Meanwhile, under fire FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has tried to clam a social media storm after appearing to hit out at drivers’ for speaking about human rights and mental health.
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F1.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-h98a3b{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(236,245,247,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-xpuujo{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(149,199,208,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-tqcu81{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(149,199,208,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-bq4915{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,97,108,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-bq4915:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BACK TRACK .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}FIA president releases statement after slamming drivers over human rights stance
      Ben Sulayem, who was only appointed in December, but has already driven a wedge between the sport’s governing body and F1’s owner’s, Liberty Media.
      And his recent comments will also alarm drivers such as Sebastian Vettel and Hamilton, who have spoken about social issues, and Lando Norris, who addressed mental health.
      Ben Sulayem was quoted as saying: “Niki Lauda and Alain Prost only cared about driving.
      “Now, Vettel drives a rainbow bicycle, Lewis is passionate about human rights and Norris addresses mental health.
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      “Everybody has the right to think. To me, it is about deciding whether we should impose our beliefs in [sic] something over the sport all the time.”
      The interview sparked much anger across social media but he has now tried to clarify his comments – insisting he DOES support drivers trying to help “progress in society”.
      He wrote on Twitter: “As a driver, I have always believed in sport as a catalyst of progress in society.
      “That is why promoting sustainability, diversity and inclusion is a key priority of my mandate.
      “In the same way, I value the commitment of all drivers and champions for a better future.” More

    • 175 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Ex-England and Premier League footballer could come out as gay in new TV documentary

      by

      AN ex-England and Premier League footballer could come out in a TV documentary about gay footballers.He is in talks to open up about his sexuality in a show now in production and planned to be aired on Channel 4.
      An ex England footballer is preparing to come out as gay in a TV documentary
      Network and production company chiefs have held talks with the player after a series of meetings with agents, as well as former and ­current footballers.
      It comes after Blackpool’s Jake Daniels, 17, last week became the first playing pro in Britain to come out since Justin Fashanu in 1990.
      The Sun on Sunday had revealed a day earlier that a Championship player was about to come out.
      A footie insider said: “This documentary is going to be big and is the talk of the game at the moment.
      “But after Jake made his announcement, it has just got ­bigger and made the topic even more relevant.
      “They have been in talks with a secretly gay player and are confident he will participate and come out on the show.
      .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}READ MORE JAKE 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}KARREN BRADY .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Jake Daniels has become an overnight icon for bravely coming out
      “The overwhelmingly positive reaction to Jake’s announcement has made him all the more confident.
      “He realises Jake has been incredibly brave and feels he could also be a role-model who breaks down barriers if he does the same thing.”
      Channel 4 did not comment about the planned documentary.
      Yesterday Jake posed in a Gay Pride T-shirt and said: “Together we can end the stigma and move football forwards.”
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      Current England captain Harry Kane was among those who praised Jake’s bravery.
      And Olympic gold medal-winning diver Tom Daley has now added his support — and also thanked Kane.
      Tom, 28, who came out himself in 2013, said: “Straight footballers at the top of the game are commending him, and I think for visibility in the sport it’s just incredible.
      “The fact that Jake came out is a really powerful message to send. It’s so incredibly brave it might encourage people to be brave and more people to come out, able to be themselves.”
      Jake Daniels became the first footballer in the UK to come out as gayCredit: Blackpool fc
      Jake Daniels wants to end the anti-gay stigma in footballCredit: More