On Sunday (6 December), the Leicester footballer caused controversy when he collided with a Rainbow Laces corner flag during a match against Sheffield United.
After scoring the winning goal, a visibly overjoyed Vardy celebrated by performing a sliding tackle on the flag, destroying it in the process.
The flag was placed on the pitch to mark Rainbow Laces Day, which promotes “community, energy and a sense of belonging” for queer fans in all aspects of sport.
His “annihilation” of the Pride flag ultimately went viral on social media, with many assuming the act was Vardy repudiating inclusivity within football, which is infamous for its lack of LGBTQ+ players.