Norway’s FA bans pro-gay rights demos for Russian match

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The Norwegian Football Association has banned political demonstrations including a pro-gay protest during this Saturday’s friendly against Russia.

Despite political messages being banned for the match in Oslo, including those backing Ukraine, the rainbow flag will be permitted at the Ullevaal stadium.

“At Ullevaal, it has been decided not to grant requests for demonstrations, because it is a sports event,” said the FA on its message.

It said political banners and t-shirts were included in the ban.

“Rainbow-coloured t-shirts are permitted. The same rule applies to flags of limited size,” the statement continued.

Supporters had complained that they were warned against carrying rainbow flags, and were told they might not be granted access to the stadium, the Local reports.

Last year Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a bill into law which bans the “promotion of non-tradition sexual relations.”