Jordan Henderson’s Move to Saudi Arabia Could be “More Harmful” to LGBTQ+ Community, Says Leading Gay Rights Group

Jordan Henderson’s move to Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq has been met with criticism from a leading gay rights group. The former Liverpool captain had been a high-profile supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and has apologised for any hurt he has caused by moving to a country where homosexuality is illegal.

In his first interview since the £12 million move, Henderson said he has been hurt by the criticism he has received and that his views have not changed. But co-chair of Pride in Football and the co-founder of Three Lions Pride Joe White said Henderson’s latest comments have not helped mend relations.

White told the PA news agency: “His presence could actually be more harmful to local LGBT people if he does speak out because the people who do get impacted on aren’t high-profile footballers, they’re your standard LGBT people who will then get the backlash.” He added that Henderson’s decision to move to Saudi Arabia would not help highlight the problems faced by the gay community and bring about change.

White said: “What has he done? He’s done nothing. Nothing he’s done since he’s been there has been positive for the LGBT community. He has no power or influence in a country run in the way Saudi Arabia is.” He urged Henderson not to promote the gay rights movement by wearing the rainbow laces during Saudi Pro League matches, as it could cause a backlash and harm local LGBT people.

Liverpool’s LGBT+ fans group Kop Outs! were equally unimpressed by Henderson’s interview. It posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: “No acceptance by Henderson of his role in sportswashing, trying to disguise the disgusting Saudi human rights record. This sounds more like an attempt to rebuild his ‘brand’, sorry isn’t good enough @JHenderson, actions speak louder than words.”

White said that while individual Pride in Football members would not want to engage with Henderson, “the door is always open.” He added: “But that’s not one for us to chase with Jordan and his team. It’s for him to decide that he wants to and he can get in contact with us whenever he wants.”

Jordan Henderson’s move to Saudi Arabia has been met with criticism from both gay rights groups and football fans alike. While Henderson has apologised for any hurt he may have caused, it remains to be seen whether his presence in Saudi Arabia will be beneficial or harmful to the local LGBTQ+ community. Only time will tell if Henderson will take action to help bring about change in the country or if his words will remain just that – words.