Jurgen Klopp delivered a powerful message to a star-studded audience at the British LGBT Awards over the weekend.
The Liverpool manager was nominated in the prestigious Celebrity Ally of the Year category alongside the likes of music star Alicia Keys - who was crowned the winner, narrowly beating the German coach after a huge public vote - and actor Daniel Radcliffe.
Joining via video link, the 55-year-old said: “I have always been a supporter of the LGBT+ community and if I can do anything to make a difference, then I will certainly try my very best. Wearing my rainbow laces for the whole season is my way of showing support and it’s about what we all do every day that will make the world a better place.
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"There are many famous names among this category and being nominated alongside them is something I am very proud of. Thank you to the team at the British LGBT Awards for highlighting and recognising such great work across the board. No matter what, I’ll keep on doing what I can to support the LGBT+ community and I’d like to wish you all the best. You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
Vogue director Edward Enninful was one of the big winners at the 2022 British LGBT Awards. The world-renowned fashion icon and champion of diversity was handed the Global Media Trailblazer award at the annual event which was hosted by comedian Sue Perkins.
The British LGBT Awards is said to be the UK’s biggest LGBT+ awards event and celebrates the best British and international talent from the community, as well as the allies and organisations who support them. Olympic star Tom Daley collected the Sports Personality of the Year award, while Olympian Dame Kelly Holmes was a surprise presenter on the night for the Celebrity Award, won by Lady Gaga, having just told the world she's gay.
Strictly Come Dancing duo Johannes Radebe and John Whaite were handed the Media Moment of the Year prize by judge Shirley Ballas, having been the first male same-sex couple on the show and dedicating their couples’ choice semi-final performance to what it was like growing up gay.
British LGBT Awards founder, Sarah Garrett MBE, said: "We were delighted to be able to host a celebration of the people working hard to advocate for and advance LGBT+ rights. All of the winners and nominees are incredibly deserving.”
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