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      in Soccer

      Blackpool defender deleted homophobic tweets on the day teammate Jake Daniels revealed he was gay

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      BLACKPOOL defender Marvin Ekpiteta deleted homophobic tweets on the day teammate Jake Daniels revealed he was gay.Ekpiteta, 26, wiped the messages just as teenage striker Jake came out.
      Blackpool’s Marvin Ekpiteta deleted homophobic tweets on the day teammate Jake Daniels revealed he was gayCredit: Craig Thomas/News Images
      Striker Jake Daniels, 17, is the first professional footballer to come out since the late Nottingham Forest star Justin FashanuCredit: Getty
      They included three clapping emojis in response to the news in 2013 that Nigeria had outlawed gay marriage.
      In the same year, he said it was “disgusting” and “ridiculous” that TV soap Hollyoaks had five gay characters.
      Ekpiteta also blasted a gay plot-line in Towie in 2012.
      A fan of Championship side Blackpool said: “It’s a major embarrassment for the club after they lauded Jake for coming out.
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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 ON JAKE DANIELS.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-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-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-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;}’WELL PLAYED’ .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 receives support from football world including Lineker and Kane
      “Deleting tweets and hoping no one noticed is unacceptable. He must apologise and understand the hurt he has caused.”
      Jake, 17, publicly revealed on Monday he was gay — the first current male professional player to be out — saying it was “the right time”.
      It brought praise from across the football community, with FA president Prince William saying his “courage will hopefully break down barriers”.
      Tonight, Marvin Ekpiteta issued an apology for the homophobic tweets.
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      He said: “Today, social media posts I made in 2012 and 2013 have been highlighted.
      “I want to wholeheartedly apologise for the offensive and completely inappropriate language I used, and for the sentiments I expressed.
      “As a footballer, and in the years spent in work before I became a professional player, I’ve been fortunate to have worked with a wide and diverse range of people. Throughout this period, I have developed and grown as a person.
      “Yesterday, I was proud of Jake and all involved at Blackpool FC for what is a hugely positive moment for football as a whole.
      “I am embarrassed by the comments I made as a 17-year-old, nearly a decade ago, which do not in any way reflect the values I hold now or the beliefs I have as a person or as a teammate.
      “Football needs to be a place where everyone can feel free to be true to themselves, and I am upset that the comments I previously made suggest otherwise.
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      “I take full responsibility for these posts, and I am sorry.”
      Blackpool was asked to comment. More

    • 238 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      I’ve been hiding the real me – it’s a step into unknown to reveal my sexuality, says Jake Daniels

      by

      BLACKPOOL star Jake Daniels became the first openly-gay British footballer for 32 years.The young striker, 17, spoke of his “relief” after coming out publicly.
      Jake Daniels is the first openly-gay British footballer to come out in 32 yearsCredit: @BlackpoolFC
      The brave teen said he no longer wanted to live a lie – after knowing his sexuality from a young age.
      Daniels has already received widespread support from his family, team-mates and the Stonewall charity after taking the brave step.
      And he joins Australian Josh Cavallo as the only current openly gay male professional player in world football.
      Here is Daniels’ full statement on the Blackpool website…
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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 ON JAKE DANIELS.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-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-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-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;}’AMAZING SUPPORT’ .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;}Blackpool’s Jake Daniels becomes 1st openly gay footballer since Fashanu
      This season has been a fantastic one for me on the pitch.
      I’ve made my first-team debut, scored 30 goals for the youth team, signed my first professional contract and shared success with my team-mates, going on a great run in the FA Youth Cup and lifting the Lancashire FA Pro-Youth Cup. 
      But off the pitch I’ve been hiding the real me and who I really am.
      I’ve known my whole life that I’m gay, and I now feel that I’m ready to come out and be myself.
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      It’s a step into the unknown being one of the first footballers in this country to reveal my sexuality, but I’ve been inspired by Josh Cavallo, Matt Morton and athletes from other sports, like Tom Daley, to have the courage and determination to drive change.        
      In reaching this point, I’ve had some of the best support and advice from my family, my club, my agent and Stonewall, who have all been incredibly proactive in putting my interests and welfare first.
      I have also confided in my team-mates in the youth team here at Blackpool, and they too have embraced the news and supported my decision to open up and tell people.   
      I’ve hated lying my whole life and feeling the need to change to fit in.
      I want to be a role model myself by doing this.
      There are people out there in the same space as me that may not feel comfortable revealing their sexuality.
      I just want to tell them that you don’t have to change who you are, or how you should be, just to fit in.
      You being you, and being happy, is what matters most.
      Jake More

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      Jake Daniels: Blackpool striker reveals he is gay as he becomes first footballer to come out since Justin Fashanu

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      A BLACKPOOL footballer has today opened up about his “massive relief” after revealing he is gay. Striker Jake Daniels, 17, is the first professional footballer to come out since the late Nottingham Forest star Justin Fashanu.
      Jake Daniels of Blackpool has come out as gayCredit: Rex
      He said the club has been very supportiveCredit: Sky Sports
      He is the first footballer to come out since the football star Justin FashanuCredit: Getty
      He revealed he has received the full support of his teammates and officials at his Championship club.
      He told Sky Sports: “Now is the right time to do it. I feel like I am ready to tell people my story. I want people to know the real me.
      “I have been thinking for a long time about how I want to do it, when I want to do it. I know now is the time.
      “I am ready to be myself, be free and be confident with it all.”
      The young forward said he no longer wanted to live a lie – after knowing he was gay from a young age.
      Jake said: “I can’t really put a date on it, but I was probably five or six years old when I knew I was gay. So it’s been a long time that I have been living with the lie.
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      “At that age you don’t really think that football and being gay doesn’t mix. You just think, one day, when I’m older I’ll get a girlfriend and I will change and it will be fine.
      “But as you get older you realise you can’t just change. It doesn’t work like that.”
      Just one current male player in the world of football has come out as gay — 22-year-old Josh Cavallo, of Australia’s Adelaide United.
      The only prominent male English footballer to have done so was Mr Fashanu, who revealed he was gay in 1990. He took his own life eight years later.
      Other stars — including ex-Aston Villa ace Thomas Hitzlsperger, 40, and former Hull City youth player Thomas Beattie, 35 — came out when their careers ended.
      Amal Fashanu, the founder of the Justin Fashanu Foundation, said the announcement will come as a “huge comfort” to other gay players who have not gone public.
      He said: “The Justin Fashanu Foundation would like to commend Jake for the immense bravery he has shown today by taking this step in making his sexuality public.
      “First and foremost this is an important moment for Jake, and it is wonderful to see that his friends and his family have been so supportive. 
      “If my Uncle Justin were alive I know he would have been one of the first people to have contacted Jake to offer his support and best wishes.
      “Justin’s wish was to create a society where people could simply be kinder to one another and where bigotry doesn’t exist. 
      “Jake’s announcement will come as a huge comfort to the many footballers at all levels of the game – from grass roots to the professional leagues – still secretly living as gay and who still feel unable to come out.
      “I truly hope this announcement marks a turning point and that other footballers, who wish to do so, feel they can talk more openly about the life they lead off the field.”
      In October The Sun told how a gay Premier League footballer has had therapy amid fears of coming out.
      It is a rarity in world sports for men to announce they are LBTQ+.
      Former Wales rugby captain Gareth Thomas came out in 2009, two years before he retired.
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      The first active NFL player to come out as gay was Carl Nassib in 2021 while he was at the Las Vegas Raiders. The defensive end was released by the team in March.
      The first openly gay player in the NBA was Jason Collins while playing for the Brooklyn Nets in 2021.
      The young striker has just begun his football careerCredit: Twitter
      Jake shakes Hands with Ronnie Edwards of Peterborough UnitedCredit: Mark Cosgrove/News Images More

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      World’s only openly gay footballer Josh Cavallo slams homophobic abuse he received during Adelaide United match

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      BRAVE Australian footballer Josh Cavallo has taken to social media after being subjected to vile homophobic abuse while playing for Adelaide United.Cavallo became the only active male professional in the world to come out as gay in a powerful announcement in October.
      Cavallo openly came out as gay in October, but has revealed he has been subjected to vile homophobic abuse while playing for Adelaide UnitedCredit: Getty
      Cavallo emotionally wrote on Instagram after being subject to homophobic abuse while on the pitchCredit: Instagram joshua.cavallo
      The abuse came during the 1-1 draw against Melbourne Victory on Saturday.
      And in a heartfelt post on Instagram, the courageous Cavallo, 22, revealed there were ‘no words’ to hide his disappointment.
      Cavallo wrote: “I’m not going to pretend that I didn’t see or hear the homophobic abuse at the game last night. There are no words to tell you how disappointed I was.
      “This shouldn’t be acceptable and we need to do more to hold people accountable.
      “I will never apologise for living my truth and most recently who I am outside of football.
      Cavallo then went on to courageously call out social media platforms to do more to combat homophobic abuse online in a bid to raise more awareness for those targeted.
      @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-zkaekv{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-zkaekv::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -1px);}.css-zkaekv::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);}Most read in Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
      He continued: “To Instagram I don’t want any child or adult to have to receive the hateful and hurtful messages that I’ve received.
      “I knew truly being who I am that I was going to come across this. It’s a sad reality that your platforms are not doing enough to stop these messages.”
      Cavallo did thank fans for their messages of support after he was subjected to the vile words.
      He added: “Thank you to all the positive messages, love and support, seeing that far outweighs the negativity. To the individuals that reached out after making a stand at the game. I commend you.
      “Thank you to those fans, you had me emotional. Love will always win.”
      Adelaide United also condemned the abuse targeted at Cavallo at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium.
      A club statement read: “Adelaide United is proud to be an inclusive and diverse football club, and to see one of our players subjected to homophobic abuse is disappointing and upsetting.
      “We will continue to work with the Australian Professional Leagues and Melbourne Victory to identify perpetrators and prosecute them accordingly.”  
      Cavallo also revealed last year he is ‘very scared’ to play at the Qatar World Cup for Australia because of his sexuality. More

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      in Motorsport

      Lewis Hamilton praised by fans for wearing rainbow helmet for Qatar GP as he takes stand for LGBTQ+ rights

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      LEWIS HAMILTON has been praised by fans for wearing a rainbow helmet at the Qatar Grand Prix in support of the LGBTQ+ community.Homosexuality is criminalised in Qatar, where this weekend’s crucial race takes place.
      Lewis Hamilton donned a rainbow-coloured helmetCredit: AFP
      The British hero isn’t afraid to stand up for what he believes inCredit: Getty
      During today’s practice, Hamilton donned a rainbow-coloured helmet, in solidarity with those that are persecuted simply for their sexuality in the gulf state.
      The back of the helmet featured the message: “We stand together.”
      Fans were impressed with the 36-year-old’s gesture.
      One wrote on social media: “WAIT is Hamilton wearing a pride flag on his helmet this weekend in f***ing QATAR? I love this man.”
      A second added: “Big balls move, like it.”
      And another commented: “I may not be a fan of him but I can f***ing respect that.”

      This weekend isn’t the first time that Hamilton has spoken up for LGBTQ+ rights this season.
      Prior to the Hungarian Grand Prix back in July, he offered his full support.
      He said: “To all in this beautiful country Hungary. Ahead of the Grand Prix this weekend, I want to share my support for those affected by the government’s anti-LGBTQ+ law.
      “It is unacceptable, cowardly and misguiding for those in power suggest such a law. Everyone deserves to have the freedom to be themselves, no matter who they love or how they identify.
      “I urge the people of Hungary to vote in the upcoming referendum to protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, they need our support more than ever.”
      Following his stunning victory in the face of adversity last week in Sao Paulo, British hero Hamilton remains in the championship mix this weekend.
      With just three Grands Prix left, the driving legend trails Max Verstappen by 14 points.

      Lewis Hamilton celebrates his F1 victory at Brazil Grand Prix More

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      in Soccer

      Brave A-League player Josh Cavallo comes out as only known gay footballer in the world in emotional video

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      AUSTRALIAN footballer Josh Cavallo has come out as gay – saying he is ‘tired of this double life’.He becomes the only currently active male professional in the world to do so.
      Adelaide United star Josh Cavallo revealed he is gay in a courageous announcementCredit: AP
      He took to social media with an emotional video explaining his story
      In an emotional video on Adelaide United’s social media page, the courageous 21-year-old said: “I’m a footballer and I’m gay.
      “All I want to do is play football and be treated equally.
      “I’m tired of trying to perform at the best of your ability and to live this double life, it’s exhausting.
      “I thought that people would think of me differently when they found out. They would start treating me differently.
      “They would start saying bad things about me or making fun out of me. That’s not the case. If anything, you would earn more respect from people.”
      Cavallo also wrote a lengthy statement on his own personal Twitter account.

      The left-back from Melbourne wrote: “I have been fighting my sexuality for over six years now, and I’m glad I can put that to rest.
      “For the people that know me personally, you’ll know I’m a private person. Growing up, I always felt the need to hide myself because I was ashamed.
      “Ashamed I would never be able to do what I loved and be gay. Hiding who I truly am, to pursue a dream I always wished for as a kid, to play football and be treated equally never felt like a reality.
      “Being a gay closeted footballer, I’ve had to learn to mask my feelings in order to fit the mould of a professional footballer.
      “Growing up being gay and playing football were just two worlds that hadn’t crossed paths before.
      “I’ve lived my life assuming that this was a topic never to be spoken about.”
      Australia Under-20 international Cavallo received widespread adulation for his announcement video, with plenty saying he will ‘save lives’ by bravely revealing his sexuality.
      Adelaide United said: “We stand alongside @JoshuaCavallo for proudly being true to himself and will continue to love and support him as a member of our beautifully diverse family.”
      Football Australia wrote: “Football Australia wishes to commend Josh’s bravery to come out as the only openly gay player in the A-League men competition.

      “His courage to be open with himself and share that part with others is inspiring and will hopefully inspire more footballers to do the same in the future.”
      Sydney FC added: “Well done for your courage today, @JoshuaCavallo. You’ll be a shining light for many future generations of footballers.”
      Cavallo joins the brave group of professional footballers to come out as gay.
      Although in the women’s game it is far more common, only a select number on the men’s side have taken the public step.
      Justin Fashanu came out in October 1990 but was subjected to horrific homophobic abuse and took his own life in 1998.
      Former Germany international Thomas Hitzlsperger made his announcement in 2014, a year after ex-Leeds, LA Galaxy and USA star Robbie Rogers.
      Last year, it emerged two Prem stars had come out to close family and friends.
      But in an open letter to the FA, one said he was “too scared” to do so publicly.

      And earlier this month, SunSport revealed a gay Premier League footballer has had therapy because he is so frightened of coming out, telling friends: “I will be crucified.”
      The ace said he has sought professional psychological help amid fears of how rival fans will react.
      Iconic footballing names have come out in support of Cavallo.
      Barcelona centre-back Gerard Pique said on Twitter: “Hey @JoshuaCavallo, I don’t have the pleasure to know you personally but I want to thank you for this step that you take.
      “The world of football is far behind and you are helping us move forward.”
      Pique’s Barca team-mate Griezmann – whose on loan at Atletico Madrid this season – also reached out to support the left-back.
      The frenchman tweeted: “Proud of you @JoshuaCavallo.”
      England legend Gary Lineker says he is ‘full of admiration’ for Cavallo.
      Lineker said: “It’s absurd that coming out is a brave thing to do in football.
      “It is though, and I’m full of admiration for Josh for treading a path hopefully many others will follow.
      “I’m sure the overwhelming majority of football lovers will support him and erase the fear others may have.”
      Arsenal say Cavallo’s ‘strength and bravery’ has made the ‘world of football a better place.’
      The Gunners tweeted: “Thank you @JoshuaCavallo for your strength and bravery…
      “You are an inspiration to millions.
      “Everyone deserves the right to be themselves. The world of football is a better place today, because of you.” More

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      in Motorsport

      Lewis Hamilton slams Hungary’s ‘unacceptable and cowardly’ anti-LGBTQ+ law and calls for freedom ahead of Grand Prix

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      LEWIS HAMILTON has slammed Hungary’s ‘unacceptable and cowardly’ anti-LGBTQ+ laws.The reigning Formula One world champion arrived in the country ahead of this weekend’s Grand Prix.
      Lewis Hamilton has arrived in Hungary ahead of the next race of the F1 seasonCredit: Getty
      The reigning world champion wrote a passionate post across a rainbow background
      And he called on the government to rethink their laws banning same-sex marriages and other restrictions placed on the LGBTQ+ community, such as adopting children.
      Hamilton, 36, took to his Instagram story with a passionate post sending his love to those affected, set on a rainbow background.
      The Brit, who has been a leading voice in the fight against racism and other discrimination too, wrote: “To all in this beautiful country Hungary.
      “Ahead of the Grand Prix this weekend, I want to share my support for those affected by the government’s anti-LGBTQ+ law.
      “It is unacceptable, cowardly and misguiding for those in power suggest such a law.
      “Everyone deserves to have the freedom to be themselves, no matter who they love or how they identify.
      “I urge the people of Hungary to vote in the upcoming referendum to protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, they need our support more than ever.
      “Please show love for those around you because love will always win. Sending you positivity.”
      During this summer’s Euros which coincided with Pride Month, Hungary’s law came under the spotlight.
      The government, led by Viktor Orban, had recently passed a ruling that banned portraying homosexuality to under-18s.
      Germany condemned Hungary’s new legislation – and then the Allianz Arena was lit up in rainbow colours.
      There were reports of homophobic chants throughout Hungary’s defeat to Portugal.

      Hamilton goes into the weekend trailing rival Max Verstappen by just eight points in the F1 drivers’ standings.
      It will be the first time the pair have locked horns since their collision at Silverstone two weeks ago.
      The championship rivals hit on the opening lap of the British GP – with the Red Bull drive crashing out as Hamilton claimed a crucial win in the title race.
      Hamilton heads into the weekend trailing Max Verstappen by eight pointsCredit: Getty
      The pair famously clashed at Silverstone with the Dutchman put out of the race
      Lewis Hamilton pulls off huge F1 British Grand Prix win in front of Silverstone fans after penalty for Verstappen crash More

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      in Soccer

      Uefa accused of ‘staggering failure’ over response to German request to light stadium in rainbow colours

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      UEFA have been accused of “staggering failure” after insisting they DO support the LGBTIQ+ rainbow despite banning it from being used tonight.Euro bosses refused to give permission for the rainbow colours to light up Bayern Munich’s home ahead of Germany’s final group game with Hungary.
      UEFA have been slammed over their stance to requests to illuminate the Allianz Arena in rainbow coloursCredit: AP
      Football’s governing body have been accused of hypocrisy for claiming the LGBTIQ+ symbol was politicalCredit: Twitter @UEFA
      Fans hold up a rainbow flag in Munich ahead of Germany’s match with Hungary
      Munich mayor Dieter Reiter had approved the gesture as a rebuke to the vote in the Hungarian parliament which banned content promoting homosexuality and/or gender change to Under-18s.
      UEFA said that was a “political” gesture and therefore banned, despite having previously agreed Germany skipper Manuel Neuer COULD wear a rainbow armband because it was “not political”.

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      The European Gay and Lesbian Sport Federation were part of the LGBTIQ+ groups that have since written to president Aleksander Ceferin.
      In the letter, it was hoped UEFA would “accept their misstep and reverse their decision” and “to clarify their actions in response to the homophobic behaviours we’ve seen in some matches.”
      But this afternoon’s widely-derided response has been rightly slammed by Hugh Torrance, Co-President of the EGLSF.
      To claim to have respect for the rainbow colours without addressing any of the issues which gave rise to the letter to them in the first place is a staggering failure
      He told SunSport: “UEFA’s response has not lived up to any of the outcomes we sought, and it has failed in any meaningful way to address the fundamental issues that we have raised with them.
      “To claim to have respect for the rainbow colours without addressing any of the issues which gave rise to the letter to them in the first place, without naming homophobia, and without being able to mention LGBTIQ+ people directly, is a staggering failure.
      “If you are going to say that you support LGBTIQ+ people, you need to be able to oppose anti-LGBTIQ+ laws and you need to not prevent actions which oppose oppressive behaviours and actions against us.
      “We strongly urge UEFA to recognise their power and reconsider their position on this, and to work in partnership with the communities they purport to support.”
      Uefa recently revealed Germany and Manuel Neuer will face no punishment for wearing a rainbow armband in support of Pride Month in games against France and Portugal
      SunSport previously reported that German clubs are lighting their stadiums up in rainbow colours in response to UEFA’s handling of tonight’s game.
      And Torrance added: “The ’46:1 in favour of the rainbow’ response from football clubs in Germany is a show of leadership that is uplifting and powerful and is unequivocal in its support.
      “To see the level of support from players, officials and fans across the football world and beyond is inspiring and is the most heartening thing about this whole incident.
      It’s notable how out of step UEFA as the Governing Body are with public support and opinion on this
      “Since sending our letter yesterday evening, we have been inundated with further support from many other groups operating in UEFA member states, and from many in Hungary in particular.
      “It’s notable how out of step UEFA as the Governing Body are with public support and opinion on this.”

      Wembley is the host of this year’s final but Torrance claimed that UEFA would prove their failings if they approved rainbow colours for that game after blocking German requests.
      He told SunSport: “We would of course welcome Wembley being lit up with rainbow colours, and other clear visibility and unequivocal support that they can bring to this issue.
      “But UEFA support for lighting up Wembley whilst doubling down on their opposition to lighting up the Allianz Arena, would further highlight their inability to stand up strongly when it counts.”

      Defiant German club Hertha Berlin lights up stadium with rainbow colours More