The Premier League has reportedly ended its eight-year partnership with LGBTQ+ advocacy group Stonewall ahead of the upcoming season.
According to The Telegraph, the decision to drop the use of rainbow armbands and laces was made during a meeting with all 20 club captains held on Thursday.
The report also notes that while the Rainbow Laces campaign will no longer be part of the league’s efforts, education and outreach through community programs will remain a key focus.
Rather than continuing with the Rainbow Laces initiative, the Premier League plans to introduce its own campaign aligned with LGBTQ+ History Month in February.
In addition, players have agreed to continue taking the knee as a symbol of support in the ongoing fight against racism.
Following the conclusion of the Rainbow Laces partnership, a spokesperson for Stonewall commented:
“Rainbow Laces has played a vital role in advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion, acceptance, and participation across all levels of sport—whether as players, participants, or fans.
While it can still be challenging for elite players to come out publicly, we’re now seeing visible role models, and participation at the grassroots level has become more accessible. For fans, the LGBTQ+ community is increasingly feeling welcomed and accepted.
