‘Respect For Iranian Women’ protester invades pitch at World Cup match

A protester holding a rainbow flag and with a shirt saying “Respect For Iranian Women” on the back ran onto the pitch during Monday’s game between Portugal and Uruguay at the World Cup in Qatar.

Security staff quickly intervened and moved away the protester, who also had “Save Ukraine” on the front of his shirt.

The tournament has been surrounded by controversy over hosts Qatar’s treatment of the LGBT community as well as anti-government demonstrations in Iran.

Portugal’s Rúben Neves said: “We know what has happened around this World Cup. It’s a normal thing to happen. Of course, we are all with them as well. Iran as well, because I saw his shirt. I hope nothing happens to the boy because we understand his message and I think all the world understood it as well.”

Quick Guide

Qatar: beyond the football

Show

This is a World Cup like no other. For the last 12 years the Guardian has been reporting on the issues surrounding Qatar 2022, from corruption and human rights abuses to the treatment of migrant workers and discriminatory laws. The best of our journalism is gathered on our dedicated Qatar: Beyond the Football home page for those who want to go deeper into the issues beyond the pitch.

Guardian reporting goes far beyond what happens on the pitch. Support our investigative journalism today.

Thank you for your feedback.

Portugal went on to win the match 2-0 thanks to a Bruno Fernandes double to secure their place in the knockout stages.

source: theguardian.com