Gay football tournament comes to London
The Nike match ball infront of rainbow flags during the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Newcastle United at Vitality Stadium on February 24, 2018. (Catherine Ivill/Getty)
Some 20 men and women’s teams from around the country have signed up for the first-ever Ford Pride London Football Tournament.
Organised by London Falcons FC, the free event on June 23rd will see gay, lesbian and bi-friendly six-a-side teams thrashing it out at the Goals Soccer Centre in Wembley.
It’s the first major gay-friendly football event seen in London and will kick off the night before when the draw for the groups will take place.
Organisers say the intention of the event is to break down the prejudices which accompany gay-friendly football and to show the high standard of football that is played by lesbian, gay and bi-friendly teams.
The tournament is sponsored by Ford, also sponsors of the UEFA Champions League.
Marketing director Mark Ovenden said:
“Ford’s commitment to football is second to none and as true fans we believe that it should be an inclusive sport where ability and enjoyment of the game are the only relevant selection criteria at whatever level players participate.”
The top three teams will be presented with their trophies on the main stage in Trafalgar Square at the Pride London rally on June 30th.
“The gay, bi and lesbian-friendly teams involved not only want to show what a high standard of football is played, but to also have a great day just enjoying the football,” said London Falcons FC captain Tom Price.
He added that the event’s social aspect is also a major part of the whole experience.
“We would welcome anyone who wants to come down to the evening’s parties, meet new people and enjoy the great atmosphere that there always is at football events,” he said.
For more details on the event visit www.londonfalconsfc.com or www.pridelondon.org
