January 21 – England’s official LGBTQ fans group will boycott the 2026 World Cup, citing safety concerns in the United States and criticising FIFA and its president Gianni Infantino.
Founded before the 2018 World Cup and with more than 350 members, Three Lions Pride have said they will not travel to the US, one of three co-hosts of this year’s global finals, to watch England in action because members of the group will have to focus on personal safety rather than football.
In a statement, Three Lions Pride said: “As a group, we are no longer surprised by hollow platitudes from FIFA nor are we shocked at having a major tournament that disregards the safety, security or wellbeing of fans. We very loudly raised our concerns about both Russia and Qatar as hosts, and it would be irresponsible of us to not raise our voices as loudly about the 2026 hosts. As ever, our primary concern is about the safety of our members and queer fans worldwide under the principle that fans should be able to follow their team wherever they play without fear of abuse, violence, or arrest just for their existence.”
The USA had long been viewed as a safe haven for queer supporters after the recent tournaments in Russia and Qatar, both of which drew criticism over laws seen as hostile to LGBTQ communities. But under the administration of US President Donald Trump, civil rights and human rights have been under huge pressure.
Three Lions Pride highlighted the current climate in the US, including travel bans, freedom of speech and immigration enforcement agency ICE. They explicitly referred to the killing of Renee Good in Minneapolis. It’s led the group to conclude that it “cannot guarantee the safety and security of our members.”
England will play Croatia in Dallas, Ghana in Boston and Panama in New Jersey in Group L. They are among the favourites to win the tournament.
The group concluded their statement, taking aim at FIFA boss Gianni Infantino: “This is a tournament that had so much promise. Less than six months out from the tournament it only promises to line FIFA’s corrupt pockets whilst TV viewers see empty seats and exclude loyal fans whilst creating a real risk of numerous human rights violations based on disability, race, gender and sexuality.”
“Today, and every day, Gianni Infantino should feel ashamed.”
FIFA has been contacted for comment.
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