Racer from Italy makes a mark at the Giro d'Italia
The fact that the rights of queers are repeatedly called attention to in the context of sporting events is not new. Among others, no less than Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton ensured last year that the eyes of the world - at least for a short period of time - were focused on the rainbow flag.
Now a special sign has also been set in cycling, more precisely: at the Giro d'Italia. Here, an Italian cyclist decided to wear a bracelet in trans colors. Particularly interesting: the start of the Giro d'Italia takes place in Hungary and thus in a country where homophobia is (unfortunately) still particularly widespread.
What is the Giro d'Italia?
Many passionate cycling fans don't want to miss the Giro d'Italia any more than they do the Tour de France. Now it was that time again! The race has started. It started in Budapest, the capital of Hungary. The coming days should be correspondingly exciting for those who are enthusiastic about cycling. This year's Giro d'Italia will not be over until the end of May, or more precisely May 29, 2022.
The fact that there are many athletes who have made it their business to still make a mark in this day and age was shown, among others, by him: Jacopo Guarnieri. He made a very special statement, underlining how important it is to take a stand as a person in the public eye.
The trans armband does not go unnoticed
It did not take long until - among others on Twitter - the cyclist's trans armband was discussed. Above all, many members of the community thanked Jacopo Guarnieri for having ensured more visibility with this action. Interestingly, the athlete did not opt for the classic rainbow flag, but for the trans version.
Maybe also because he knew that this one could attract a lot of attention? After all, it is - especially outside the community - by far not as well known as the rainbow.
Either way, the armband became the eye-catcher of the day for many... Probably also because the athlete showed how important the topic is to him?
A press conference with spicy questions
In keeping with the armband, the LGBTQIA+ community was also briefly discussed during the PK around the Giro d'Italia. After all, it is no secret that there are many people in Hungary who have to suffer from the partly homophobic legislation and intolerance. A few journalists decided to address exactly that and draw attention to the laws that are directed against queers in the country.
However, the organizer of the Giro d'Italia did not take a clear position. He explained that he is a sports organizer and believes that everyone can show their personal skills in sports. There would be no restrictions here. And that is exactly what he would like to see from the Giro d'Italia in Hungary.
Whether this is a hidden message or simply a "wishy-washy" answer is something that everyone can judge for themselves.
Jacopo Guarnieri is celebrated
The cyclist's statement was definitely much clearer. And it is precisely for this that he is celebrated on the Internet today. He did not lose many words, but wore the trans ribbon as a matter of course. At the same time, he was moved on Twitter by how positive the reactions to his action had been.
And who knows? The Giro d'Italia is still a long way off. Maybe the Italian has a surprise message or two up his sleeve? The community and its supporters would certainly be delighted.