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Blinded by the light: Orban cancels Munich trip to watch Hungary

Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban has cancelled a planned trip to Hungary's Euro 2020 Group F...



Blinded by the light: Orban ca...
Soccer

Blinded by the light: Orban cancels Munich trip to watch Hungary

Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban has cancelled a planned trip to Hungary's Euro 2020 Group F game with Germany. 

The build-up to the game has been dominated by talk of whether or not the Allianz Arena will be illuminated in LGBTI Pride colours.

Orban's government has overseen the introduction of a number of draconian laws aimed at Hungary's gay community, and it's led to a backlash both in his own country and across Europe.

Munich Mayor Dieter Reiter had sought to light Bayern Munich's stadium in rainbow colours for the visit of Hungary, a request which was controversially rejected by UEFA.

Reiter described the decision of European football's governing body as "shameful".

Speaking ahead of the game, experienced Germany defender Mats Hummels said, "For me personally, I would have enjoyed it [rainbow lights].

"I am a supporter of messages like this to the world, full stop.

"Footballers and other sporting personalities can have a positive impact and send the right signs."

Several German cities have announced that they will light their stadiums in rainbow colours on Wednesday evening, even if Munich can't.

While Reiter says a giant wind turbine close to the Allianz, and the city's Town Hall, will be decked in rainbow colours.

German press agency DPA said Orban has decided against travelling to the Bavarian city for Hungary's final group game, and will instead head for Brussels.

Orban's spokesperson was keeping his immediate plans in the closet, saying, "We do not provide information, now as before, on Viktor Orban's private programme."

Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer will wear a rainbow-coloured captain's armband for the game in Munich.

While his Dutch counterpart Georginio Wijnaldum says he'd like to do the same for the Netherlands' last-16 tie which will be in Budapest on Sunday.

UEFA already has an investigation open into alleged homophobic and racist chanting at the Puskas Arena during Hungary's recent games with Portugal and France.

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Euro 2020 Gay Rights Germany Hungary Lgbt Lgbti+ Lgbtq Manuel Neuer Mats Hummels UEFA Viktor Orban