The European Football Union (UEFA) has once again buckled in the struggle for respect, tolerance and equality.
Among other things, the Continental Association prohibited its European Championship sponsor Volkswagen from using the last-used advertising banners in rainbow colors at the quarter-finals on Friday in St. Petersburg and on Saturday in Baku.
On the other hand, they should be used on Friday in Munich and on Saturday in Rome.
"Due to concerns of UEFA with regard to the legal framework at the venues in Russia and Azerbaijan, the association informed us that it was not possible to use rainbow-colored advertising on the advertising boards in St. Petersburg and Baku," said Volkswagen on Friday with and emphasized: "We regret this development." They wanted to once again set a "clear signal in favor of diversity".
Last week, UEFA prohibited the city of Munich from illuminating the arena in the rainbow colors during the game between Germany and Hungary.
When refusing, she referred to her provisions that she was an apolitical association.
The city of Munich wanted to set an example after Hungary had previously passed an internationally criticized law to prevent information about homosexuality.
Following the decision against Munich's plans, UEFA approved the replacement of the advertising boards of several European Championship sponsors.
The rainbow colors were seen on them during the round of 16 matches.
Baku and St. Petersburg were, however, not venues in the first knockout round.