The Premier League is rolling out a new LGBTQ+ initiative this weekend, marking a shift from its previous partnership with Stonewall for the Rainbow Laces campaign. The new 'Premier League With Pride' campaign will feature stadium advertising and bespoke digital artwork across all clubs. This follows an earlier collaboration that began in 2014 to promote equality in football.

This move comes after some players, such as Ipswich Town's captain, chose not to participate in the Rainbow Laces campaign. The new initiative will include LED advertising, digital artwork, and educational resources. The league aims to ensure inclusivity across all areas of the game, with academy players receiving education on identity and inclusion.

Stonewall, while no longer partnered with the Premier League for this campaign, remains committed to working with clubs. The new campaign is in partnership with national LGBTQ+ support line Switchboard. The focus is to make the campaign a longer-term effort.

The Premier League's commitment to inclusivity is clear, however, some pushback from players and the shift away from Stonewall suggests a complex landscape. The league's actions will be closely watched. Next, the impact on fan engagement and players' responses will be important to observe.