The Premier League has officially ended its partnership with LGBTQ+ rights charity “Stonewall”, bringing an abrupt close to the Rainbow Laces campaign that has been visible across English football since 2017.
The decision means rainbow armbands and laces will no longer be worn during matchdays starting from the 2025-26 season.
The campaign was introduced to promote inclusivity and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community within the sport. For the past eight years, captains, referees, and even mascots donned rainbow-themed apparel during dedicated matchdays as a sign of support.
What Led to the Change?
The decision was reportedly finalized during a recent meeting involving all 20 Premier League club captains, as confirmed by The Telegraph and Daily Mail.
Instead of public displays like armbands, the league says it will now focus on education and awareness through community programmes.
The shift follows a season of controversy regarding the rainbow armband. Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi was formally warned by the FA for customizing his armband with the message “I love Jesus.”
While Ipswich Town’s Sam Morsy, citing his Muslim faith, refused to wear the armband without facing sanctions.
Reaction and Future Implications
A spokesperson for Stonewall responded:
- “Rainbow Laces has helped improve LGBTQ+ inclusion, acceptance and participation in sport at all levels. This visibility mattered.”
While Premier League officials insist their commitment to inclusion remains intact, critics argue the removal of public symbolism may signal a step back.
With visibility on the pitch gone, the question remains, how will the Premier League ensure LGBTQ+ inclusion off it?
