FIFA refuses all inclusive symbols. After having thwarted the plans of seven European selections who wanted to wear a colored “One Love” armband, the organizer of the World Cup banned the Belgian team on Monday from using their second set of jerseys in Qatar.
This jersey, mostly white, features prints in the colors of the rainbow and the word “Love” on the collar. According to the Belgian Federation (RBFA), it is this mention “Love” which would pose a problem for Fifa. It will therefore suffice to remove this inscription for the jersey to be validated by the international body.
This jersey « is inspired by the famous Tomorrowland fireworks (a music festival, Editor’s note) and represents the shared values of diversity, equality and inclusion”said the RBFA during the presentation of the jersey last September.
Support “by other means”
The Belgians, who enter the fray on Wednesday against Canada, will wear their first outfit, traditionally red, for the three matches of the group stage of this World Cup.
“Belgium’s players and coaches are strong supporters of inclusion and will continue to show their support in other ways”reacted the RBFA, adding that it will now wear “a critical look at its relations with FIFA” in the coming period.