UK: rainbow laces distributed to players to protest against homophobia

Irish sports betting service Paddy Power, has partnered with Stonewall, an association defending the rights of homosexuals, to launch the campaign against homophobia in the UK "Right Behind Gay Footballers" on the 16/09/2013.

Rainbow laces are distributed to all players through the 134 professional clubs in the UK. They can chose to wear them during matches of the 21/09 and 22/09/2013 to show they support gay footballers.

The aim of the operation is to change the habits by fighting against homophobia in football. "In most other areas of life people can be open about their sexuality and it's time for football to take a stand and show players it doesn't matter what team they play for," said Paddy Power, on the 16/09/2013.

It's time for football clubs and players to step up and make a visible stand against homophobia in our national game," said the Stonewall deputy chief executive, Laura Doughty, on the 16/09/2013. Users can also show their support for the movement on Twitter, with # RBGF hashtag.

• Joey Barton, Queens Park Rangers' midfielder, has already shown his support by wearing…