UEFA defence of its decision not to allow a rainbow colours light display at the Allianz Arena ahead of Germany's Euro 2020 clash against Hungary has been criticised by a leading European Union official.
Dieter Reiter, the mayor of Munich, had been pushing to illuminate the stadium in his city as a direct response to legislation approved by Viktor Orban's populist right-wing government in Hungary banning gay people from appearing in educational materials in schools or messages that promote gender change for under 18s.
Germany defender Mats Hummels, boss Joachim Low and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer have shown their support for the colours being displayed in some capacity ahead of their crucial Group F clash on Wednesday.
European Commission Vice President Margaritis Schinas has criticised UEFA's decision not to allow a rainbow colours light display ahead of Germany's clash with Hungary
The city of Munich had been pushing to illuminate the stadium ahead of the Group F clash
But UEFA upheld its own decision, claiming that while the symbol itself is not political, the request itself is, given that it was made with Hungary's side set to be present at Bayern Munich's ground.
'Today, UEFA is proud to wear the colours of the rainbow,' a statement from the organisation read.
'It is a symbol that embodies our core values, promoting everything we believe in - a more just and egalitarian society, tolerant of everyone, regardless of their background, belief or gender.
Dieter Reiter, the mayor of Munich, wanted it in direct response to legislation in Hungary banning gay people from appearing in educational materials
'Some people have interpreted UEFA's decision to turn down the city of Munich's request to illuminate the Munich stadium in rainbow colours for a Euro 2020 match as ''political''.
'On the contrary, the request itself was political, linked to the Hungarian football team's presence in the stadium for this evening's match with Germany.
