The Football Association of Wales said fans in Qatar were allowed to bring rainbow-colored flags and hats (symbolizing LGBT) into World Cup stadiums after they were previously confiscated at the entrance.
The opening days of the World Cup in Qatar saw widespread debate over gay rights, which are banned in the Gulf country, as fans were asked to remove any clothing indicating homosexuality.
Laura McAllister, the former Welsh national team captain, was confronted by security guards during her country’s match against the United States on Monday, where she was asked to remove her rainbow bucket hat.
However, the Football Association of Wales tweeted that FIFA had confirmed they were allowing fans wearing rainbow-colored clothing to attend Friday’s match against Iran.
In response to the FAW, FIFA has confirmed that fans wearing Rainbow Wall bucket hats and rainbow flags will be able to enter the stadium for @WalesFriday is the match against Iran.
All World Cup venues were contacted and instructed to follow the agreed rules and regulations. pic.twitter.com/9XRlx98V6h
— FA WALES (@FAWales) November 24, 2022
Seven European teams, including England and Germany, announced on Monday they had dropped plans to wear a rainbow armband.
This came after threats from FIFA of disciplinary action on the pitch.
German players covered their mouths as they snapped a squad photo on Wednesday before their match against Japan to protest FIFA’s decision to ban homosexual support badges.
