In response to media enquiries about coming out as gay in men’s football, a Football v Homophobia spokesperson said:
“David Coote’s sharing of his personal news and the reaction to the story from the media and social media are again putting issues of homophobia and LGBTQ+ mental health in men’s football into sharp focus.
“The annual Month of Action for the Football v Homophobia campaign begins on Saturday, February 1, 2025. FvH exists to raise awareness of the damaging impact caused by anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination and by the resultant shame, which can acutely affect gay and bi men in the professional and semi-pro games.
“FvH also offers education, resources and connections, such as through the LGBTQ+ Professionals in Football Collective, that are helping to create more welcoming and inclusive football spaces.
“We hope all those who are affected by this story, such as those in the match officiating community, feel able to access relevant support and information. FvH is here to assist with this provision.
“We invite football clubs, leagues and organisations at all levels of the game to activate the FvH message in February and reaffirm their year-round commitment to ensuring football is for everyone.”
Notes for editors
About Football v Homophobia
Football v Homophobia (FvH) is an international initiative that exists to challenge discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression at all levels of football.
We want football to take a clear stand against homophobia and transphobia so that everyone can enjoy the beautiful game and football leads the way in removing discrimination and prejudice based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Learn more here.
The annual Month of Action for the FvH campaign is held every February, in what is also LGBT+ History Month.
Clubs, groups, leagues and organisations are invited to register now for February 2025. See our 2025 Champions so far here.
FvH provides tailored education sessions for people in football of all age groups.
For more news and content relating to FvH, as well as our Football v Transphobia initiative, visit our archive.
Contacts
Lou Englefield, FvH campaign director
lou@footballvhomophobia.com
Jon Holmes, FvH media consultant
jon@footballvhomophobia.com