Kevin Behrens Faces Controversy: VfL Wolfsburg’s Bold Stand
The German professional soccer club VfL Wolfsburg has confirmed that player Kevin Behrens refuses to sign gay pride shirt and continues to train with his teammates. This incident has sparked significant discussions about diversity and inclusion within the team and the broader sports community.
Incident Overview
Recently, Kevin Behrens made headlines when he refused to sign a Wolfsburg shirt featuring a rainbow logo representing the LGBTQ pride flag. Reports indicate that Behrens responded offensively when approached by a fan, stating, “I won’t sign that gay [crap].” The incident has raised concerns, leading the club to address the situation internally.
Team’s Stance
In an official statement, a team spokesperson confirmed the incident and emphasized their commitment to diversity. They stated, “We can confirm that the incident unfortunately took place. There were immediate talks with Kevin Behrens. He is still taking part in the training sessions, but please understand that as a club, we don’t comment on sanctions players receive.” The spokesperson added that respect, tolerance, and openness are integral to the club’s philosophy.
Behrens’ Apology
Kevin Behrens later issued an apology regarding his comments. He acknowledged that his spontaneous remarks were inappropriate. “My spontaneous comments were absolutely not OK. I would like to apologize for that,” Behrens stated. He further requested understanding as the issue was discussed internally.
Support from Teammates
Wolfsburg captain Maximilian Arnold has shown support for LGBTQ advocacy by wearing a rainbow captain’s armband for two seasons. He stated, “Kevin apologized for something that was definitely not good. Everyone makes mistakes. One thing is clear: something like this should not happen again, but everyone deserves a second chance.”
Continued Advocacy
The team has previously highlighted its dedication to fighting discrimination and promoting equality. Player Yannick Gerhardt, in an in-house video interview, discussed his awareness of his privilege and the importance of standing up against all forms of discrimination. “If the purpose is positive and in the spirit of equal treatment, then I’m there,” he said.
Behrens’ Career
Kevin Behrens joined VfL Wolfsburg in January after three successful years at Union Berlin. He earned a call-up to the German national team early last season, marking his international debut in a 2-2 draw against the United States last October. Despite the recent controversy, Behrens remains a part of the team, as he trains and prepares for upcoming matches.
The incident where Kevin Behrens refuses to sign gay pride shirt serves as a reminder of the ongoing discussions surrounding inclusivity in sports. VfL Wolfsburg’s response reflects a commitment to addressing these issues while supporting their players as they navigate the complexities of public life and personal beliefs.
