Homosexuality in men's soccer is still a taboo, but from this Monday it is a little less so thanks to Jakub Jankto. The Czech has announced with a message on social networks that he is gay and his message has caused a carousel of words of support for the Sparta Prague side on loan from Getafe.
Different entities and clubs of the beautiful sport have reacted immediately, including the 'azulón' team. "Our utmost respect and unconditional support for our footballer," he wrote on his Twitter account at the Madrid club, where he played last season and with which he has a contract until June 2026.
For its part, Sparta Prague, the team in which he is playing this season on loan, dedicated a more extensive message about the process that the footballer followed internally with those responsible for the club: "He spoke openly about his sexual orientation with the board of directors , the coach and the teammates at the club some time ago. Everything else is about his personal life. No more comments. No more questions. You have our support. Live your life, Jacob. Nothing else matters."
Barça, historically a club committed to human and social rights, also declared: "Proud of you." Other teams in the Santander League such as Atlético de Madrid, Celta, Valladolid, Osasuna or Valencia have wanted to dedicate a few words to Jankto, as well as a historic team like Real Zaragoza.
In the international arena, Jankto's announcement has also penetrated. Milan, one of the most successful clubs in Europe, did not want to be less: "Never live in fear of who you are. We are by your side, Jankto". Juventus, Arsenal, Bayer Leverkusen, Schalke 04, Wolfsburg and Union Berlin, among others, were some of the clubs that immediately responded to the Czech's announcement.
Regarding the main entities that govern football, the Prague player did not lack support either. "We are all with you, Jakub. Soccer is for everyone," wrote FIFA, although the body that governs world soccer put obstacles to the presence of the bracelet in favor of the LGTBI collective at the World Cup in Qatar. As far as the old continent is concerned, UEFA joined the cause: "Well done. You are a true inspiration and European football is with you!"
Some of the big leagues in Europe took part in the affair. LaLiga and the Premier League spoke out, as well as the French Professional Football League (LFP): "Congratulations and thanks for this testimony Jakub. Homosexual or heterosexual, we all wear the same shirt." The MLS of the United States and the Association of Spanish Soccer Players (AFE) also responded to Jankto's courageous message.
