Pride House International play down reports of official House at World Cup in Russia
Tuesday 24 April 2018 11:44, UK
Pride House International (PHI) have denied there are currently plans for an official Pride House to be held in St Petersburg during the upcoming World Cup in Russia.
Pride Houses, which were first introduced at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, are venues at major sporting events specifically for LGBT athletes, coaches and visitors.
Reports originating in Russia earlier this week had claimed that LGBT visitors would be able to "find shelter" at an officially endorsed Pride House in St Petersburg, despite current anti-LGBT laws in Russia.
However, PHI denies this is the case and insists it has had no contact with "local organisers".
A statement released on Saturday read: "We at PHI were initially made aware of this initiative when a piece was published in USA Today on April 20, 2018, reporting on an "unofficial Pride House" in St. Petersburg led by an unnamed Russian activist group.
"Pride House International does have a history working with local LGBT+ activist organizations to develop safe spaces for LGBT+ fans, athletes, and allies and we have been in talks with local activist groups to strategize around the 2018 World Cup but this initiative in St. Petersburg is unknown to us.
"We would be delighted to hear from the local organizers about their plans."
The statement continued: "In at least one story, it was reported that 'Pride House International have confirmed that they are planning on having a venue in an undisclosed location in St. Petersburg.' This is untrue.
"Although we at Pride House International are learning about these plans for the first time, we would invite the local Russian activist group to reach out to us for support."
