New Delhi: While Portugal and Uruguay played for a place in the round of 16, a fan entered the field with a rainbow flag in his hand. He also wore a T-shirt which said, “Respect for Iranian women” and “Save Ukraine.” While many controversies regarding human rights violations and banning the ‘OneLove’ armband have surrounded Qatar World Cup, the authorities are facing more resistance from players and fans.
Bravery ❤️????? #Qatar #FIFAWorldCupQatar2022 #portugalvsuruguay pic.twitter.com/YjHTgICQ0k
— Meripa (@Meripairrgang) November 28, 2022
The man was on the field during the second half of the game before security took him out. The Italian press agency AGI identified him as Italian Mario Ferry. He is known to have staged such protests in the 2014 FIFA World Cup as well where he protested against children suffering in poverty.
Qatar has been criticised for criminalising same-sex relationships and being discriminatory towards the LGBTQ+ community. Mario Ferry used the rainbow flag, which is the symbol of inclusion for LGBTQ+ as a flag of protest. However, according to reports, the stadium authorities have been strict towards people carrying any rainbow clothing inside. Even European players who decided to wear a ‘OneLove’ armband were asked not to do so, which also led to the silent protest by the German players. The Iranian team also refrained from singing their own national anthem as a sign of protest. Portugal footballer Ruben Neves came in support of the protest and said that they all stand with Iranian women and want people to understand Mario Ferry’s message.
In the game, Bruno Fernandes scored a goal in the second half and another one off a penalty during the extra time to lead Portugal to the knockouts. Meanwhile, star player Cristiano Ronaldo also tried a header which did not pay off as a goal.
