At today’s game, for the first time ever, a rainbow match ball will be used.
The English Football League (EFL) and Official Match Ball partners, PUMA have joined forces to mark LGBTQ+ History Month by unveiling this brand new Rainbow match ball which will be used by all 72 Clubs across Sky Bet Championship, League One and League Two matches from today.
The Rainbow Ball design includes the rainbow and progress colours, symbolising that football is for everyone - and representing the League’s active support for inclusion throughout the game.
For every goal scored with the Rainbow Ball across the Championship, League One and League Two, PUMA will make a donation to an LGBTQ+ Fans for Diversity Fund. The money raised will be utilised to support LGBTQ+ supporters and their projects which may include initiatives to raise awareness about inclusion in football, events promoting diversity, or providing resources for LGBTQ+ fans within the football community.
EFL partners will also show their support for the campaign, with Title Partners Sky Bet donating an allocation of PUMA ORBITA Rainbow Balls to LGBTQ+ friendly community football clubs and fans, while EA SPORTS FC 24™ players will be able to use the Rainbow Ball in gameplay from February 15th.
Beyond the game itself, here at Bolton Wanderers, we celebrate the diversity we have in our supporter base and our town. Through our charitable arm, Bolton Wanderers in the Community, the club has developed an award-winning LGBTQ+ Youth Club that offers young people aged 13-17 a safe and welcoming place to meet outside of school each week.
Find out more about BWitC’s inspirational and ever-growing LGBTQ+ Youth Club here.
Diversity is to be celebrated. Together we are One Club, One Community, One Town.
Enjoy the game,
Phil