Homophobia stirred against Portuguese star.
Football Association urged to report Sun to the Press Complaints Council.
London – 5 July 2006
“The Sun’s homophobic sneers against Portuguese football star, Cristiano Ronaldo, are out of order.
“We urge the Football Association to prove its commitment to tackling homophobia by reporting The Sun to the Press Complaints Council,” said Peter Tatchell of the gay human rights group OutRage!
“The Sun branded Ronaldo a ‘nancy boy’ and quoted England footballer Wayne Rooney as ridiculing him as a ‘pretty boy.'” (The Sun, pages 1 and 5 on 3 July).
“It stirred up homophobic prejudice against Ronaldo, with its sneering insinuation that he is gay.
“The Sun’s sleazy slur is pathetic, bigoted revenge after Ronaldo scored the winning goal against England in the World Cup last Saturday.
“The Football Association has pledged to stamp out homophobia and to protect players who are victims of homophobic prejudice. It is time the FA made good its promise by reporting The Sun to the Press Complaints Council. Anti-gay insults are a clear violation of the PPC’s rules.
“No player should have to endure ridicule about their race or sexuality,” said Mr Tatchell.