Kit manufacturer Hummel has cited Qatar’s human rights record in the design of Denmark’s World Cup jersey
Denmark will play in plain jerseys at this year’s FIFA World Cup in Qatar, in what kit manufacturer Hummel describes a protest against the Gulf state’s human rights record.
Tournament host Qatar has faced widespread objections from much of the Western world due to perceived abuses of migrant workers who helped build the necessary infrastructure to hold the world’s biggest sports tournament, with claims that thousands have died in the past several years.
The country has also been criticized for its treatment of LGBT individuals, with some suggesting that Qatar’s stance on certain social issues should have made it ineligible to hold a global event of this magnitude.
The criticism has been reflected in the design of the Danish jersey by sportswear company Hummel, which has unveiled a stripped-down version of the country’s famous red kit ahead of the World Cup kickoff in November.
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“With the Danish national team’s new jerseys, we wanted to send a dual message. They are not only inspired by Euro 92, paying tribute to Denmark’s greatest football success, but also a protest against Qatar and its human rights record,” Hummel announced in a statement.
“That’s why we’ve toned down all the details for Denmark’s new World Cup jerseys, including our logo and iconic chevrons. We don’t wish to be visible during a tournament that has cost thousands of people their lives.