WLQP to Stage One of the UK’s Largest Inclusive Football Tournament
- 2 days ago
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The landmark ‘Festival of Football ‘26’ community tournament brings together teams from across supporter networks, GFSN, the NHS and local businesses including dedicated FLINTA* divisions championing representation in football.
On Saturday, March 28th, West London Queer Project (WLQP) will once again take over Grasshoppers RFC in Isleworth for a day of celebration and unity for the third annual Festival of Football. The event is sponsored by PI Partnership Group, and in partnership with, Brentford FC Community Sports Trust, Chelsea Pride, and QPR in the Community Trust. This tournament is a dedicated 'Football v Transphobia Week of Action' event and aims to foster inclusivity and community spirit through football.
Homophobia and transphobia remain significant issues within Football, undermining the sport’s claim of inclusivity and equality. While progress has been made in promoting diversity, discrimination persists, not only through homophobia but also in the marginalisation and exclusion of the trans community from participation and recognition within the game. The festival aims to challenge discrimination and is working to create pathways for full participation. WLQP believes that football has a powerful opportunity to live up to its reputation as the beautiful game, one that truly welcomes everyone.
Festival of Football ‘26 promises a thrilling event. The festival offers a unique division for Female, Lesbian, Intersex, Non-binary, Trans, and Agender people (FLINTA*) along with an Open/Mixed division who will participate in 6-a-side matches. Teams include representatives from football clubs across the country, the NHS, the Metropolitan Police, community groups, and many more. Beyond the matches, the event aims to raise awareness about the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people in sports, while celebrating the positive impact of inclusivity and acceptance.
This festival is a collaborative effort between professional football clubs, their fan groups, local councils, and community organisations, all united in their dedication to championing diversity and inclusion in sports. Through this event, WLQP seeks to emphasise the importance of creating safe and welcoming environments for all LGBTQ+ individuals within the footballing community.
WLQP adds this festival to a rich calendar of events including weekly LGBTQ+ Football Skills Sessions in partnership with QPR in the Community Trust and Brentford Community Sports Trust, with support from the Brentford LGBeeTs and Chelsea Pride. The sessions every Monday rotate between Chiswick and White City, are free to attend and open to everyone.Â
Festival of Football ‘26 is open for community members to join to cheer on the teams at Grasshoppers RFC in Isleworth from 10:00 to 17:00.Â
Following Festival of Football '26 will be an After Party at The Union Bar in Chiswick featuring performances by Diana Vickers, La Belle, Chanel No 5 and DJ RA!RA!RA! Tickets for the AFTER PARTY are now on sale!
For further details about participating in the festival with a team, as a referee or volunteering on the day of, please contact: ben@wlqp.org
For further information or media inquiries, please contact: info@wlqp.org
