Premier League Ends Stonewall Partnership after eight years, ending the rainbow laces and armbands campaign that symbolised its collaboration with LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall. The league plans to replace it with a new inclusion initiative launching in February 2026 during LGBTQ+ History Month.
England’s top division had worked with Stonewall since 2017 to promote inclusion in football and beyond. The partnership included visible campaigns in matches, such as rainbow laces on boots and rainbow captain’s armbands.
Shift to a New Campaign
According to reports, Premier League chiefs decided to close the chapter with Stonewall to create their own in-house inclusion project. The FA and Premiership Rugby are also ending ties with the charity.
Rainbow laces and armbands sparked controversy in recent years. Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, a devout Christian, received a warning from the FA after writing a religious message on his rainbow armband. Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy, a practising Muslim, refused to wear the armband but faced no formal warning.
Continuing the Fight Against Discrimination
The decision to end the partnership came soon after club captains confirmed players will continue to take the knee against racism and all forms of discrimination. This agreement was reached in a meeting attended by all 20 top-flight captains.
Stonewall responded by highlighting the campaign’s achievements. A spokesperson said Rainbow Laces had “helped improve LGBTQ+ inclusion, acceptance, and participation in sport at all levels.” They acknowledged that openly LGBTQ+ elite players remain rare, but noted progress in grassroots football and increased acceptance among fans.
Broader Impact on UK Sport
The move marks a wider shift in British sport, with other leagues reevaluating long-term partnerships with external charities. While the Premier League prepares its own strategy, the legacy of Rainbow Laces remains part of the game’s inclusion history.
As the league transitions to new initiatives, February’s campaign will be closely watched to see if it maintains momentum in promoting equality, diversity, and respect in football.
