Women's World Cup Hosts Oppose FIFA's Rejection of LGBTQ Rights Armband But Won't Risk Penalties
- Australia's soccer team wants to show support for the LGBTQ community by wearing rainbow armbands at the Women's World Cup but are afraid of facing penalties from FIFA for doing so.
- FIFA approved eight armbands for the Women's World Cup promoting social causes like gender equality but left out the LGBTQ community.
- Star Australian player Sam Kerr said wearing the "OneLove" armband wasn't worth the risk of penalties that could hurt the team's performance.
- Australia's soccer organization agreed with FIFA's decision but recognized the lack of LGBTQ representation.
- Men's World Cup teams had planned to wear the "OneLove" armband last year but backed off due to FIFA's threats of punishment.