Calls to make Qatar World Cup a turning point for LGBTQ+ peoples place in football

Dublin Devils FC, Ireland’s largest LGBTQ+ inclusive football club, say they want the footballing community to ‘reflect on the impact of hosting a World Cup in a deeply homophobic country.’

They club say they are also calling on FIFA and the FAI to commit to working to improve LGBTQ+ visibility and participation in football.

Club Secretary, Jamie Farrelly said:

“This is no World Cup for gay people.

“It is disgraceful that FIFAs flagship tournament is being held in a country where gay people face 7 years in prison.

“Empty comments from World Cup organisers mean nothing to the LGBTQ+ community.

“This World Cup has left us feeling that gay people are not welcome in football.”

PRO, Adam Kane said:

“It is crucial that FIFA and the FAI learn lessons from this tainted tournament.

“The FAI need to urgently begin working to increase LGBTQ+ participation from grassroots to professional football.

“FIFA need to ensure that the World Cup is never held in a country that excludes and makes supporters feel unsafe.

“Players should go back to their clubs and communities and set an example that encourages gay people at all levels to be themselves and play football.

“Measures to support LGBTQ+ participation and visibility include an FAI LGBTQ+ inclusion policy that ensures education for coaches & referees, zero tolerance on homophobic bullying & chanting and a dedicated FAI LGBTQ+ development officer.

“Dublin Devils encourage the FAI and clubs across the country to work with LGBTQ+ people in their communities and ensure everybody feels welcome to participate in football.”

Dublin Devils, who were founded in 2005, are based in the Phoenix Park and are Ireland’s largest LGBT+ Inclusive football team.

They have a competitive 11-a-side football team as well as 6-a-side and social teams.

The club ethos is to provide a safe and welcoming place for LGBTQ+ people of all ages and ability to play football.