Which 7 Nations had fears of getting banned for wearing the One Love Armband?

Which 7 Nations had fears of getting banned for wearing the One Love Armband

The One love armband has been making a lot of news lately. As we all know about its concept that football is for everyone regardless of an individual’s sexuality. The world cup taking place at Qatar sparked tons of controversies because of the policies the country has.

7 European countries were reportedly in line to wear the One Love armbands before FIFA decided to hand yellow cards and sanctions to those wearing the One Love bands. England faced a lot of backlash for getting under pressure by the FIFA to not display those armbands.

There were fears among the English FA that captain Harry Kane would be shown a Yellow card every time he wears it. Moreover, there were also reports suggesting that Gareth Southgate’s three lions wont be allowed to enter the pitch as well.

All the 7 European nations, formed a conglomerate and discussed this issue. The conclusion was that FIFA can take any step against their favor and eventually the idea was dropped. The German FA labelled FIFA’s decision as “extreme blackmail” and reports indicated that there were no information if there is going to be any caution or not.

During Germany’s opening game against Japan, the German players were seen covering their mouth – probably a message that in this world cup at Qatar there is very little room for Expressions. In one of the matches in this edition, the referees were seen checking the captain’s armband to make sure there is no slogan related to homosexuality, religion, political and other controversial issues.

Which 7 Nations had fears of getting banned for wearing the One Love Armband
Which 7 Nations had fears of getting banned for wearing the One Love Armband

England, Germany, Switzerland, Wales, Belgium, Netherlands and Denmark were among the nations that were ready to display the One love arm band but they eventually backed out because they feared the captains would be banned.

Denmark FA have even threatened to pull themselves out of FIFA. Reportedly England were Blackmailed by FIFA that they will receive massive bans and fines if they wear the One Love arm band.

Six German players including Manuel Neuer were among the players who wore the boots that showed rainbow stripes. They were praised for that gesture during their shocking loss against Iran.

Now let’s take a look at what players and managers of the nations have said about this issue.

I don’t know all the ins and outs because I wasn’t in the meeting but there was definitely a feel there were sanctions and not all of those were really clear, I think, so the decision was taken out of the hands of Harry. The decision from the organisation was: ‘We’re not even putting the armband in the dressing room.’ There is no discussion. The player had no say. I’m quite comfortable with our position and I think we should be confident in what we stand for. We want to support the LGBTQ community in particular and recognise that a lot of those people aren’t here with us, and we wanted them here with us. But we could also rush into doing things that don’t really make any difference. – said England Head coach Gareth Southgate.

Also Read – What is “One Love” armband which is used in FIFA World Cup 2022 and why wearing it is banned?