The Premier League will support the LGBTQ+ community over the next two weeks, participating in the Rainbow Laces initiative.

Each team’s captain will wear a rainbow armband, with positive messaging featured around Premier League stadiums for games played from 22-30 October.

As part of the program, the Premier League will distribute lesson plans and teaching resources to over 18,500 schools throughout the UK to promote inclusivity.

Discussing the campaign, Premier League chief executive, Richard Masters, said: “The Premier League and our clubs work together to ensure inclusion is embedded across all areas of the game and are committed to fighting all forms of discrimination.”

“While progress has been made, we know more can be done and we will continue to prioritise this vital area of work.”

“We have an important role to play in using the power and reach of football to encourage fans to show support for LGBTQ+ people.”

“The Rainbow Laces campaign provides an opportunity to highlight the work that is carried out throughout the year to ensure every aspect of football is inclusive and welcoming to all,” he concluded.

The partnership is an ongoing commitment to diversity that began in 2017 and follows the Premier League’s backing of the grassroots Play Safe initiative.