Leeds United are proud to support the launch of football’s first ever rainbow ball, marking LGBTQ+ History Month.

Developed by the English Football League’s (EFL) Official Match Ball Partner, the Rainbow match ball which will be used by all 72 Clubs across Sky Bet Championship, League One and League Two matches from February 16-24.

The Rainbow ball design includes the rainbow and progress colours, symbolising that football is for everyone and representing the League’s active support for inclusion throughout the game.

For every goal scored with the Rainbow ball across the Championship, League One and League Two, a donation will be made to an LGBTQ+ Fans for Diversity Fund. The money raised will be utilised to support LGBTQ+ supporters and their projects which may include initiatives to raise awareness about inclusion in football, events promoting diversity, or providing resources for LGBTQ+ fans within the football community.  

EFL partners will also show their support for the campaign, with title partners Sky Bet donating an allocation of Rainbow balls to LGBTQ+ friendly community football clubs and fans, while EA SPORTS FC 24™ players will be able to use the Rainbow ball in gameplay.  

EFL Chief Executive Officer, Trevor Birch said: “The League is proud to collaborate on this historic first for English football and join with our clubs, partners, and LGBTQ+ communities to celebrate LGBT History Month. 

“We want the Rainbow Ball to be a catalyst for opening conversations and raising awareness and understanding of the issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community as we work to make the game truly inclusive and representative of society.”

EFL Director of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, David McArdle added: “The Rainbow ball is a symbol that everyone should feel welcome at football and represents the EFL’s commitment to the LGBTQ+ community to changing the game and society for the better.”

More information on the EFL’s equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives can be found HERE.