Czech Jakub Jankto becomes the first active European international to come out

“I’m gay and I don’t want to hide anymore”. Czech international Jakub Jankto came out in a video posted on his Twitter account on Monday 13 February. “Like everyone, I have my strengths. I have my weaknesses. I have a family. I have friends. I have a job that I have been doing the best I can for years, with seriousness , professionalism and passion. Like everyone else, I also want to live my life in freedom. Without fear, without prejudice, without violence, but with love”supported in front of the camera the player with 45 selections for the national team.

His position follows that of the Australian Josh Cavallo, who opened a breach in October 2021 when he became the first active player playing in the first division to come out. In May 2022, it was Jake Daniels’ turn to become the first English pro player to do so while still wearing his cleats. Jankto became the first European international to come out in the middle of his career.

A great wave of support

The one who took part in the Czech Republic’s five matches at Euro 2021, until elimination in the quarter-finals against Denmark (1-2), is also the very first player under contract with a club playing in the five major European championships to come out. He is currently on loan from the Getafe club to Sparta Prague. He also has 155 Serie A games (with Sampdoria and Udinese) and 14 in La Liga.

The video he posted was met with a huge wave of support. Fifa, UEFA, the Professional Football League (LFP), the Premier League and many European clubs, including FC Barcelona, ​​have shown their support for Jakub Jankto.

“Jakub Jankto spoke openly about his sexual orientation with the club’s management, coach and teammates some time ago. Everything else is about his personal life. No further comment. No more questions. You have our support. Live your life, Jacob. Nothing else matters”tweeted his current club, Sparta Prague.