In this year’s Alternate Christmas Message, which airs on Channel 4 on 25 December and offers a different stance to the Queen’s message, the Olympian speaks out against countries with governments hostile to the LGBTQ+ community hosting major sporting events. “In 2022 the World Cup is being held in the second most dangerous country on Earth for queer people, Qatar,” Tom says. “Why are we allowing places that aren’t safe for all fans and all players to host our most prestigious sporting events?
Hosting a World Cup is an honour. Why are we honouring them? Holding a Formula One grand prix is an honour. Why are we honouring Saudi Arabia?” In an open letter and video posted on 27 October, Josh Cavallo shared that he is gay – making him the only