Qatar World Cup boss tells countries not to turn the event into a ‘platform of political statements’

The Qatar World Cup head has warned against turning the tournament into a “platform of political declarations” amid plans by 10 countries to wear rainbow bracelets as part of an anti-discrimination initiative.

England captain Harry Kane is among those to wear the multicolored ‘One Love’ bracelet in Qatar, where same-sex relations and promoting same-sex relations are a criminal offence.

Despite the fact that FIFA has not yet given its approval, the FA remains determined to let Kane wear the armband – even though he risks possible fines.

Qatar World Cup chief Nasser Al Khater has said it is up to the World Football Association to approve the use of the bracelet.

Qatari officials have insisted that members of the LGBTQ+ community are welcome at the World Cup, but the nation has refused to change its laws ahead of the tournament.

Speaking with Sky NewsAl Khater urged attendees to respect the local culture.

The FA is determined that Harry Kane will wear a OneLove bracelet despite a possible ban

England and nine other European countries have joined the ‘OneLove’ campaign

“Ultimately, as long as you don’t do anything that harms other people, if you don’t destroy public property, as long as you behave in a way that isn’t harmful, then everyone is welcome and you have nothing to worry about,” he said. .

“As far as I understand, there are discussions going on about the different political messages to come.

‘This is a sports tournament that people want to go to’ [to] and enjoy. I don’t think it’s good for sport to make it a platform for political statements.’

The armbands were worn during the final round of Nations League matches, with UEFA’s permission. However, no green light has yet been given by FIFA to use them in Qatar later this year, despite England having written to them with their request.

Those involved, including Wales, Belgium and Sweden, could be banned from wearing the bands if that permission is not granted.

There have been a number of protests against working conditions in Qatar ahead of the World Cup

A delegation from the group met with FIFA on Wednesday to request an update.

Kane, who wore the bracelet to England’s Nations League matches against Italy and Germany last month, said: “I am honored to join my fellow national team captains in support of the important OneLove campaign.

“As captains we may all be fighting each other on the pitch, but we stand together against all forms of discrimination. That is all the more relevant at a time when divisions in society are commonplace.’

The Netherlands started the OneLove campaign ahead of Euro 2020.

It is the latest protest against Qatar and its treatment of migrant workers in the run-up to the tournament, in which “thousands” were said to have been injured or killed during infrastructure construction.

Denmark’s third kit for the tournament is an all-black ‘color of mourning’ jersey

“Many people who speak on this issue of employee welfare… are not experts in the industry. And they are not experts in what they are talking about,” Al Khater added to Sky News.

“And I feel like they feel an obligation, that they need to speak up. I think they really need to read and learn a bit more about what’s happening on the ground in Qatar.”

Last month, Danish equipment supplier Hummel unveiled a monochrome strip for the World Cup in a bold protest against the host nation.

The new red kit is inspired by their Euro 92 success when Denmark won their only major title, but the logo and details are barely visible.

An all-black design, which Hummel said means the “color of mourning,” will be their third kit in Qatar.