The rules on black armbands in sport in the UK - when they are allowed

Wales Online

6 hours ago

The rules on black armbands in sport in the UK - when they are allowed
The symbol of mourning and grief has been banned at some events, and by some sporting bodies
A black armband is seen to signify the death of Queen Elizabeth II on the arm of Kostas Tsimikas of Liverpool
Football players in the UK have been wearing black armbands as a symbol of mourning and respect for more than 75 years, although the tradition goes back much further and predates World War One. Black armbands are worn to pay respect to players, staff and even fans after a recent death - as well as to remember tragic events or during periods of national mourning.
Many players wore black armbands after the death of Queen Elizabeth II, while players also wear bands to mark the date of events such as the Hillsborough Disaster, and the Munich Air Disaster. In order to wear armbands, in the UK, clubs need to request permission from the league or governing body.
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FIFA and UEFA require national teams or clubs in international competitions to seek permission before wearing black armbands.
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The length of time that black armbands are worn after a football player's death is not fixed by formal rules but typically follows custom and discretion. For a current first-team player, it is usually worn for one or two matches.
Black armbands have been banned during some notable events. FIFA initially banned the England squad from wearing black armbands with poppies in 2011 and 2016. In 2011 FIFA reversed its decision after backlash from the UK government and public, allowing poppies to be worn on black armbands.
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In 2016, FIFA again threatened sanctions, but England, Scotland, and Wales wore them anyway. Fines followed but were later overturned on appeal. Armbands for Black Lives Matter were allowed in 2020 during a limited protest but governing bodies later tightened restrictions to avoid political expressions becoming routine.
The International Olympic Committee's Rule 50 prohibits athletes from displaying political or religious symbols (including armbands) during competition or podium ceremonies. This includes black armbands for political causes, though general mourning may be allowed with permission.
Black has been the colour of mourning since ancient times. In Rome, mourners wore dark togas during funerals and periods of grief. In Medieval Europe, b lack became standard mourning wear among nobles and royalty.
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Queen Victoria's prolonged mourning after Prince Albert's death (1861–1901) cemented black as the mourning colour in Britain and influenced global customs.