For many queer people, sports can be a hugely difficult environment for them to be open, both to the detriment of themselves and to the sport itself. Between Leeds United being charged £150,000 last year for homophobic fan chants, to Iker Casillas’ ‘hacked’ coming out tweet, there is so much damage still being dealt to the LGBTQ+ community.
But there is real change being made, with acceptance and awareness spreading wider amongst the new generation as conversations are being had and communities are founded. I spoke to football fan Dylan about his views on the sport in relation to his queer family, and gay racing driver Richard Morris on what it was like to help carve out a safe space for young athletes.
CW: homophobic language, abuse (used as example)
