Brazilian referee Igor Benevento became the first referee in football history to be classified as gay.
Benevenuto, 41, announced during the Globoesporte podcast that he is gay and expressed his happiness that he is finally ready to be himself.
in Statement to GloboEsporteFIFA said: “FIFA welcomes and supports referee Igor Benevenuto and his decision to exit. As has been highlighted at other times, FIFA firmly believes that football is for everyone. Igor strives to be true to himself at an important moment for football in Brazil. And in other countries around the world.
“We hope this decision will encourage others and inspire more diversity and inclusion in the ‘beautiful game’.”
