The Football Association (FA) has promised to wear the armband in Qatar, even if FIFA does not authorize it.
The move comes as part of OneLove’s season-long campaign against LGBTQ+ discrimination in football and in society at large.
Why will players wear the OneLove bracelet?
European captains use the OneLove bracelet to raise awareness of LGBTQ+ discrimination in Qatar, where same-sex relationships and their promotion are criminalized.
Qatari authorities have not given a specific guarantee that LGBTQ+ fans traveling to the country for the tournament will be safe.
Qatar’s Supreme Committee, the body in charge of organizing the World Cup, said: “Everyone will be welcome in Qatar in 2022, regardless of race, background, religion, gender, sexual orientation or nationality.”
“We are a relatively conservative society; for example, public displays of affection are not part of our culture.”
“We believe in mutual respect and while everyone is welcome, what we expect in return is that everyone respect our culture and traditions.”
Speaking about the decision to wear the OneLove bracelet, Kane said, “I am honored to join my fellow national team captains in supporting the important OneLove campaign.”
“As captains, we can all compete with each other on the field, but we stand united against all forms of discrimination.”
“This is even more relevant at a time when division is common in society. Wearing the armband together on behalf of our teams will send a clear message when the world is watching.”
Kane wore the armband during England’s Nations League matches in September.