England’s World Cup squad has arrived at the controversial World Cup in Qatar, on a plane called ‘Rain Bow.’ The Three Lions team left their St George’s Park HQ on Tuesday morning and jetted out to Doha from Birmingham Airport on the Virgin Atlantic flight, which featured rainbow livery supporting LGBT+ pride. Here’s what you need to know.
Tournament host Qatar is being widely criticized over its oppressive laws and treatment of LGBT+ people. England skipper Harry Kane is one of several national captains who plan to participate in the ‘OneLove’ campaign during the tournament, which starts on Sunday to oppose discrimination.
England Lands In Qatar Ahead Of The World Cup In Their ‘Rain Bow’ Plane
A Football Association spokesperson said: “We show our support for inclusion in many ways, including wearing the OneLove Armband during the tournament.”
Earlier, the Prince of Wales visited the England squad at St George’s Park ahead of their trip to the World Cup. William joined a private meeting at the team’s Staffordshire training ground on Monday evening. During the ceremony William received an England shirt in return signed by all the players, many of whom he has met before during previous visits to their Staffordshire training ground. The players were then called up one by one, and William posed for an individual photo with each of them. William handed out the shirts from number one for goalkeeper Jordan Pickford right through to number 26 for Conor Gallagher.
The prince also told the players: “What you and (manager) Gareth (Southgate) have built here is something special, that’s clear to see. Play for each other, support each other, enjoy it, and I’m sure you’ll go far.”
England manager Gareth Southgate introduced William, who then presented the players with their shirts. “What we are going to do is ask His Royal Highness to present you with your shirts,” he said.
After the presentation, he told the team the whole country is behind them. He said: “We are all rooting for you. Enjoy it.”
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