FIFA frustrates the FA with the latest decision as the Three Lions decision is made ahead of Iran’s opener.
FIFA has informed England that ‘OneLove’ armbands will not be permitted during the World Cup, and Harry Kane faces possible punishment if he chooses to wear the armband as a show of solidarity against Iran in the World Cup opener on Monday.
Gareth Bale also planned to wear the armbands in order to express their support of the LGBTQ+ and other marginalized groups following Qatari laws against being gay, but FIFA hasn’t supported the act from participating teams, leaving the FA frustrated.
Talks took place with the world footballing organization on Sunday after FIFA had announced new armband themes that would be allowed, including #SaveThePlanet, #ProtectChildren, #EducationForAll, and #BeActive.
Although the new designs would include the heart from the OneLove armband it wouldn’t have the rainbow on and wouldn’t be associated with the LGBTQ+ community.
England will take a knee against Iran in order to raise awareness of the fight against racism, Southgate confirmed before the match, saying: “We have discussed taking the knee. We feel we should. It’s what we stand for as a team and have done for a long period of time.
“Of course, we understand in the Premier League that clubs have decided to only do that for certain games, big occasions, we feel this is the biggest. We think it is a strong statement to go around the world for young people, in particular, to see that inclusivity is very important.”
Meanwhile, Netherlands captain Virgin van Dijk said his side would wear the OneLove armband, even if it resulted in punishment, with unconfirmed reports that captains could be booked after the first whistle if they wear it.
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