Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer investigated over rainbow armband showing support to LGBT+ community

The Germany goalkeeper has been showing his support for the LGBT+ community but UEFA considers it a political statement.

The German football association (DFB) could be hit with a fine because of Manuel Neuer’s rainbow-coloured captain’s armband.

Goal and SPOX can confirm reports from RTL and NTV that UEFA has launched an investigation into the DFB and the goalkeeper for wearing the special armband.

Neuer has been wearing the rainbow colours to show support for the LGBT+ community during ‘Pride Month’ but UEFA views it as a political statement.

Read also: Thomas Partey to change jersey number at Arsenal

Why might Germany be punished?

Neuer has worn the rainbow-coloured armband during the Euro 2020 clashes against France and Portugal.

He also wore it in the pre-tournament friendly win against Latvia.

UEFA has determined that it is a political symbol and has prohibited such demonstrations from players and teams.

UEFA criticised for lack of LGBT+ support

The investigation into the DFB comes just as European football’s governing body has faced criticism over claims Budapest could be given a bigger role in Euro 2020.

Denmark and Chelsea star Pernille Harder has called on UEFA to “step up” and refrain from moving more matches to Hungary after the government introduced new anti-LGBT+ legislation.

The Puskas Arena has hosted two matches in the summer tournament and there are still two more to be played in the Hungarian capital – the Group F clash between Portugal and France and a last-16 tie.

But UEFA has not ruled out moving the Euro 2020 semi-finals and final from Wembley if Covid-19 restrictions in the United Kingdom are not lifted. The Times recently reported that government ministers are discussing a proposal to exempt UEFA officials, guests and sponsors as well as international broadcasters from having to quarantine for 10 days after arriving in the UK.

Source: Goal.com