German football star ‘refuses to sign autograph on rainbow jersey’ before spewing four-letter x-rated outburst – as his club suspends him
Wolfsburg striker Kevin Behrens has landed himself in hot water after ‘refusing to sign an autograph on a rainbow jersey promoting diversity’ in a fan session.
The 33-year-old reportedly shunned the shirt numerous times before launching into a foul-mouthed rant, saying ‘I won’t sign that kind of gay s***’.
An internal meeting was then called with the striker forced to explain his actions to sporting director Sebastian Schindzielorz. At this point, Behrens insisted he ‘had no aversion to homosexuals’, Bild reports.
The Bundesliga club said their player’s actions ‘were not in line with [their] stance’ and he has since been suspended.
‘Homophobia has no place with us, Kevin is now home alone,’ Schindzielorz said, according to Sky Germany.
As other players penned autographs on jerseys and other merchandise, to be auctioned off for charity and various competitions, Behrens was reportedly approached by someone offering up a rainbow shirt.
The kit, which features the pattern on parts of the item of clothing including the number on the back, was introduced five years ago to show Wolfsburg’s ‘support for diversity’ and several new editions of the top, as well as scarves, cups and pins, have been launched since.
After discussing the incident with Behrens, Wolfsburg said: ‘During an internal meeting, statements were made that were not in line with VfL Wolfsburg’s stance. The incident was immediately dealt with internally.
‘VfL Wolfsburg stresses that it is aware of its social responsibility. The club and its employees stand for diversity and tolerance, and fundamental values such as respect, honesty and openness have always been firmly anchored in the club’s philosophy.’
Meanwhile, Behrens said: ‘My spontaneous comments were absolutely not okay. I would like to apologise for that.
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