England boss Sarina Wiegman speaks out about World Cup armbands controversy

England Lionesses manager, Sarina Wiegman, has spoken out about the ongoing controversy surrounding the choice of armbands for the team ahead of the upcoming Women's World Cup. In a tournament where wearing the rainbow One Love armband in support of LGBTQ+ rights is strictly prohibited, the teams have been provided with eight alternative options, each representing different causes.

While Lionesses captain Millie Bright is yet to announce which armband she will wear throughout the tournament, Wiegman assured that the team remains in high spirits.

Speaking to Sky Sports, via The Mirror, she said, "I think the players are happy with the solution. It's good that there is a solution ahead of the tournament. With the armbands, it's up to the team what armband they want to wear, and I think we're in a really good place with that."

FIFA has issued a warning of potential sanctions for teams that fail to comply with the regulations, similar to the restrictions imposed during last year's men's World Cup in Qatar. Captains could face bookings or even be forced to leave the pitch if they choose to disregard FIFA's ruling. These regulations will continue to apply in the upcoming Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Out of the eight alternatives provided by FIFA, the white armband with the inscription "Unite for inclusion" closely resembles the One Love armband. Regardless of the armband chosen, the England Lionesses can count on the full support of the backroom staff. Wiegman emphasized, "The players will decide, and they will live by their values anyway, and we as staff will support them in any choice they make with the armband."

The women's game has provided a growing platform for players to advocate for causes that are