The Premier League’s first player to refuse the rainbow armband

During Sheffield United’s 2-0 loss to Liverpool on Wednesday, defender Anel Ahmedhodzic became the first Premier League player to refuse to wear the rainbow armband.

With Chris Basham and John Egan out injured, Ahmedhodzic was given the armband, but he chose not to wear the rainbow version, instead opting for the standard one. In certain games, Premier League captains are expected to wear an armband with pride colors as part of the Rainbow Laces campaign, which was launched to help eradicate homophobia from the modern game.

According to a statement on the Premier League website, “fotball has the poower to bring us together.” Clubs and communities thrive when everyone is made to feel welcome, and it is up to all of us to make that happen.

“That is why, as the Premier League, we proudly join Stonewall in promoting equality and diversity.” Between the 2nd and 7th of December, our clubs will come together to celebrate Stonewall’s 2023/24 Rainbow Laces campaign and to show support for all LGBT people in football and beyond.

“There were bespoke Rainbow Laces pitch flags, ball plinths, handshake boards, and substitutes boards at all Premier League fixtures across the two Matchweeks.” Rainbow captain’s armbands and rainbow laces were also available.

“LED boards at the stadiums highlighted Rainbow Laces and our social media channels featured a rainbow Premier League logo to promote the campaign.” Nonetheless, Ahmedhodzic is the first captain not to wear the rainbow armband in the Premier League’s seven-year partnership with Stonewall.