The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) recently issued a statement affirming the rights of gay and LGBTQ+ footballers to self-expression, following criticism that surfaced after one player was reportedly asked to tone down his appearance.
The controversy began when Yan Couto, a Brazilian national team player set to compete in the Copa America, revealed that he was advised against keeping his pink hair, a style he’d worn with his Spanish club, Girona. In an interview, Couto said, “For the national team, I’m going with black hair, I’m going to remove it. They told me that pink is a bit extravagant. I don’t think so, but I’ll respect it.” While Couto did not specify who “they” referred to, fans and media speculated that the CBF had requested the change.
As criticism of the CBF grew over these alleged restrictions on self-expression, the organisation responded via Instagram, clarifying its stance: “The CBF reaffirms its commitment to freedom, plurality, the right to self-expression, and free construction of the personality of each individual who works for the organisation or represents the Brazilian National Team. For the organisation, employee performance speaks for itself.” The CBF’s message continued, stating that “each employee or athlete must have autonomy over their own appearance, beliefs, sexual orientation, and gender expression.”
The CBF also highlighted its dedication to fighting prejudice in football, noting partnerships with the Observatory of Racial Discrimination in Football and the Torcidas Canarinhos LGBTQ+ Collective, which collaborates with the CBF on anti-discrimination efforts.
However, it has been suggested that the request for Couto to change his hair might have come from guidelines introduced by head coach Dorival Junior’s management team, which advise players to “convey an image of seriousness” and avoid “flash earrings” and “extravagant necklaces.” Notably, there are no specific rules regarding hair colour.
Despite the CBF’s assurances of inclusivity, the Brazilian men’s national team has yet to have an openly gay or bisexual player. Worldwide, only a few professional footballers are openly gay, including Australia’s Josh Cavallo, Blackpool FC’s Jake Daniels, retired Scottish player Zander Murray, Italy’s Jakub Jankto, U.S. player Collin Martin, and South Africa’s Phuti Lekoloane.
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