Russia accuses FIFA 17 of being ‘gay propaganda’

EA has again been targeted by Russia for its support of LGBT rights.

The Guardian reports that several Russian MPs have contacted the state communications oversight agency and requested it take action against FIFA 17 owing to its support of the Rainbow Laces gay rights campaign.

EA has supported Rainbow Laces by allowing players to download a free rainbow uniform for the Ultimate Team mode.

Such support of non-traditional sexual relations” contravenes Russian law, as it supposedly promotes homosexual lifestyles and therefore poses harm to children’s health and development”, it is claimed.

Olympic gold figure skater and MP Irina Rodnina has said: Every state has its internal laws and order; they need to be obeyed.”

Communist MP Valery Rashkin added that authorities should force developer EA Canada to introduce changes to the programming code or the age classification of this information product, and if it refuses, adopt corresponding restrictive measures”.

This is not the first time Russia has reacted in horror to EA’s acknowledgement of homosexuality. In 2014 it slapped an 18+ rating on The Sims 4 thanks to its inclusion of same-sex relationships.

EA has long been celebrated for its promotion of gay rights, winning the support of several high profile celebrities in the process.

Show your support, get your FREE Rainbow kit in FUT now! More on the #RainbowLaces campaign: https://t.co/2NohXaloXe pic.twitter.com/xSbY9G8wAp

— EA SPORTS FC (@EASPORTSFC) November 26, 2016