Ireland show support for LGBT community in friendly against US
Some fans have welcomed the team’s football shirt as pride month begins.
Ireland’s national football team are displaying the rainbow flag on their shirts as LGBT pride month kicks off.
The team are wearing the shirts in their international friendly match against the US on Saturday.
A picture posted on social media by FAI shows John O’Shea’s shirt adorned with a rainbow-hued number four.
The back of tomorrowâs match kit. Not just a number, this is a statement. Ireland, supporting #LGBT rights. 🏳ï¸â🌈🇮🇪 #EqualGame #COYBIG #COYGIG #IRLUSA pic.twitter.com/Becg6ki0VW
— FAIreland â½ï¸🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) June 1, 2018
“Not just a number, this is a statement. Ireland, supporting #LGBT rights,” FAI wrote on Twitter.
Announced by FA Ireland on Friday, fans were thrilled by the move made in support of the Republic of Ireland’s LGBT community.
Yes. Yes. Yes. Youâve made me almost want to watch football. Keep up the good work. 🌈
— Aisling Bea (@WeeMissBea) June 2, 2018
“Another proud day for Irish football,” wrote Twitter user @anitathoma, while @DaithiDoolan said: “Excellent idea. Important to promote equality off and on the pitch.”
Another proud day for Irish football
— anita thoma (@anitathoma) June 2, 2018
Excellent idea. Important to promote equality on & off the pitch.
— Cllr. Daithà Doolan (@DaithiDoolan) June 1, 2018
Some fans were also quick to point out that the statement was not political and therefore not in breach of UEFA rules.
The match will be a significant one as it will see John O’Shea conclude his 17-year international career. Saturday will mark his 118th appearance for the team.
Pride month takes place around the world each June.
PA Media