“For Uefa, the rainbow is not a political symbol.”
Uefa has responded to criticism it is facing for blocking the lighting up of the Allianz Arena in rainbow colours.
Munich authorities had requested that the stadium be lit up in the colours of the rainbow flag when it plays host to Germany’s Group F clash with Hungary. However Uefa did not allow this to happen, claiming that the gesture was too political.
This prompted widespread criticism, which the governing body of European football has now responded to. In a statement, the organisation said: “Today, Uefa is proud to wear the colours of the rainbow.
“It is a symbol that embodies our core values, promoting everything that we believe in – a more just and egalitarian society, tolerant of everyone, regardless of their background, belief or gender.
“Some people have interpreted Uefa’s decision to turn down the city of Munich’s request to illuminate the Munich stadium in rainbow colours for a Euro 2020 match as ‘political.’ On the contrary, the request itself was political, linked to the Hungarian football team’s presence in the stadium for this evening’s match with Germany.
“For Uefa, the rainbow is not a political symbol, but a sign of our form commitment to a more diverse and inclusive society.”
— UEFA (@UEFA) June 23, 2021
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