To mark LGBTQ+ History month, between 16th February and 24th February the EFL (English Football League) and their official Match Ball partner PUMA unveiled a brand new football named the Rainbow Ball.

The ball will be used by 72 clubs across the Sky Bet Championship, League One and League Two symbolising that football is for everyone and representing the League's active support for inclusion throughout the game.

The ball was used at West Bromwich Albion on Friday evening, Walsall Football Club and Birmingham City on Saturday. 

For every goal that is scored with the Rainbow Ball, PUMA will be making a donation to an LGBTQ+ Fans for Diversity Fund. The money raised will be utilised to support LGBTQ+ supporters and their projects.

EFL Chief Executive Officer, Trevor Birch said: "The League is proud to collaborate with PUMA on this historic first for English football and join with our Clubs, partners, and LGBTQ+ communities to celebrate LGBT History Month.

"We want the Rainbow Ball to be a catalyst for opening conversations and raising awareness and understanding of the issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community as we work to make the game truly inclusive and representative of society."

Ryan Atkin, England's first openly gay professional official, added: "The Rainbow Ball is a powerful emblem of diversity, pride, hope and activism. It demonstrates that football recognises its status and impact on society and that it acts on all forms of discrimination, ensuring everyone can be part of the beautiful game.

"I feel very proud that my colleagues and I will be the first people to handle the ball, as we bring it across the white line ready for kick off."

This is a great step for Equality in the football world! 

For any additional information see this article:

EFL: Rainbow-coloured footballs to be used to mark LGBTQ+ History Month - BBC Sport