As February is LGBTQ+ history month, it is important to spotlight the experiences of LGBT+ footballers.
The football field has not been the most welcoming space for LGBTQ+ athletes.
Despite this, the bravery of those who have come out has sparked immense progress. From the first athletes who publicly embraced their identity to the current generation, the landscape has evolved and further paves a way for a future where football is for everyone.
Homophobia remains a persistent shadow over football. Even today, we hear homophobic chants during matches. Of course, it isn’t just those who are watching the matches, team environments can sometimes foster a culture where homophobic terms are tolerated, either out of anger or jokes.
For far too long, football has been associated with masculinity in an unhealthy way. In an era that appears progressive and embraces open-mindedness, some people still hold the belief that being gay does not align with traditional perceptions of masculinity, instead seeing it as something that is anything but masculine.
In an era where being Lesbian was unacceptable, football legend Lily Parr was open about her sexuality. Parr played for Dick Kerr FC, one of the most successful lady’s teams during the 1920s. On 27 December 1920, Dick Kerr Ladies beat St Helens ladies 4-0 at Goodison Park whilst breaking a record attendance of 53,000 - shortly after the ban on women’s football was introduced.
Justin Fashanu was the first openly gay professional footballer in the UK. In October 1990, Fashanu feared that he was going to be outed by a newspaper and chose to come out publicly before such thing could take place. He had hoped that in doing so, it would encourage other people that were struggling with their sexuality to also come out and to prove that being gay is okay.
Halil İbrahim Dinçdağ’s referee career was terminated in 2009 due to his sexuality. Dinçdağ had been a referee in Turkey for 13 years. The Turkish Football Federation suspended his licence as he had been exempted from military service due to his sexuality. This resulted in him losing his job at a radio station and receiving harmful threats. Since then, he has taken legal action and TFF were ordered to compensate him for the wrongful treatment.
On February 10, 2014, former player and football manager, Casey Stoney came out. Stoney’s decision to live authentically in the public eye emphasized the importance of visibility in women’s football. As England captain at the time, Stoney wanted to use her role in a positive way and be a role model for her children and fans.
Blackpool forward, Jake Daniels became the first pro male footballer in 30 years to come out. At just age 17, Daniels challenged stereotypes and encouraged more open conversations surrounding LGBTQ+ topics.
High profile figures, supporters and teammates all play a crucial role in gaining more acceptance of LGBTQ+ people in football. Allies help to create an environment that feels safe where individuals can freely be themselves.
In recent years, governing bodies have made improvements to create inclusive environments and have begun to combat homophobia. Many football clubs support the Rainbow Laces campaign which shows solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, there are now stricter penalties for those who engage in homophobic abuse.
To create an inclusive environment, it’s essential to build awareness around LGBTQ+ issues and culture. Having open conversations and celebrating diversity can shift football culture towards one that respects all players, regardless of sexuality.
Written by Kya Banasko
Useful resources:
Being Gay is Okay - https://bgiok.org.uk
LGBT Foundation - https://lgbt.foundation
Stonewall - https://www.stonewall.org.uk
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