Robbie Rogers: FIFA decision to host World Cup in anti-gay Qatar ‘depressing’
Exclusive: “I’ve had a problem with FIFA for a long time,” admits My Policeman producer and former footballer Robbie.
Robbie Rogers thinks FIFA bosses could learn a lot about LGBTQ equality by watching his new film, My Policeman.
The retired professional footballer is a producer on the Harry Styles-led movie about a closeted gay man in 1950s England.
FIFA, football’s governing body, has chosen to hold the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where gay sex is punishable by death.
“I’ve had a problem with FIFA for a long time,” the 35-year-old told Attitude at the My Policeman premiere in London on Saturday (15 October). “This next World Cup is a decision the old guard made.”
Speaking from the red carpet at the 2022 BFI London Film Festival, the star said: “I remember when I first heard the announcement, it was depressing. Especially as a gay footballer.
“When they host the World Cup in places like that, you feel it’s all about the money”
Robbie Rogers
“People speak about equality and trying to create a platform for all athletes to play,” Robbie continued. “But when they host the World Cup in places like that – that are homophobic, sexist – you feel it’s all about money.”
Robbie’s husband Greg Berlanti is also a producer on the film.
“I hope people at FIFA who are making decisions watch this film,” the father-of-two continued. “So they can see what the consequences are of living in a repressed society.”
Former LA Galaxy player Robbie added: “The older versions [of the characters] Marion, Tom and Patrick are products of living in that repressed society. You see the cloud that follows them.”
Former LA Galaxy and Leeds United player Robbie came out publicly as gay in 2013 after announcing his retirement.
My Policeman drops on Amazon Prime Video in the UK on 4 November 2022. It also stars Gina McKee, David Dawson, Rupert Everett, and Emma Corrin.