The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted across Canadathe USand Mexicohas faced criticism from the official LGBT+ supporters’ group for the England men’s national team, Three Lions Pride. The group has announced it will not attend the tournament, citing safety concerns for openly LGBT+ fans.
This decision comes after a thorough evaluation of the current climate in the host countries, particularly the USwhere there has been a notable rollback on human rights, especially for trans individuals. The group’s members fear that they would have to alter their self-expression to avoid potential risks.
The Birth of Three Lions Pride
The journey of Three Lions Pride began ahead of the World Cup in Russia. Robert, a 33-year-old member of the group, explained that while there were LGBTQI+ groups for club teams, there was a noticeable absence for national sides. The group was formed to provide a safe and inclusive space for queer football fans and their allies.
Robert recounted his early experiences with football, from the emotional highs and lows of watching Arsenal and England matches to feeling alienated due to homophobic chants. The creation of Three Lions Pride offered a solution, allowing fans to travel together, support each other, and build safety in numbers. This sense of community has been instrumental in making football more inclusive for LGBT+ fans.
Safety Concerns and FIFA’s Role
Despite the progress made in European football, particularly in the UKthe 2026 World Cup presents unique challenges. Robert expressed initial optimism about the tournament, given the host countries. However, the current political and legal landscape in the US has raised significant concerns. He noted that as a queer person, he would not be able to visibly be himself in several World Cup locations due to varying state laws and the direction of travel in the US.
The group has criticized FIFA for its lack of engagement and failure to address these safety concerns. Robert emphasized that the tournament had initially been seen as a beacon of hope for LGBT+ fans, but the reality has fallen short. The group cannot in good conscience advise its members to attend, as it would put them at risk of abuse, physical altercation, and potential police involvement.
The Broader Impact
The decision to skip the 2026 World Cup highlights the broader issues faced by LGBT+ fans in football. While there have been improvements in visibility and support within the sport, significant challenges remain. The group’s absence from the tournament underscores the need for continued advocacy and action to ensure the safety and inclusion of all fans.
Amnesty International is also advocating for the safety and rights of fans during the tournament, promoting a petition that calls on World Cup hosts to prioritize these issues. The collective efforts of organizations like Three Lions Pride and Amnesty International are crucial in holding FIFA and other stakeholders accountable.
As the football community continues to evolve, the experiences of LGBT+ fans serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance. The decision by Three Lions Pride to skip the 2026 World Cup is a powerful statement that resonates beyond the pitch, advocating for a more inclusive and safe environment for all.
