Leeds forced to defend ‘strange’ tour of Myanmar amid ethnic cleansing
Leeds United have defended plans for a controversial post-season tour of Myanmar, despite an ongoing military offensive in the country that has been described by the United Nations as a “textbook example of ethnic cleansing”.
The Championship club are due to play two games in the war-torn nation in southeast Asia, with a friendly against a Myanmar National League All-star team in Yangon on May 9 followed by a match against the Myanmar national team in Mandalay two days later.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office advises against all non-essential travel to four separate areas of Myanmar, formerly Burma.
Although Leeds will not be playing in any of those regions, political unrest is rife and the FCO warns of the threat of terrorist attacks, while the government also class Myanmar as having a risk of Zika-virus transmission. The decision to tour Myanmar has sparked security and health fears and raised ethical questions.
It is also understood to have caused some disquiet and concern among the playing squad, as well as inviting criticism from supporters.
Leeds, who have advised fans to “wait for further advice” before arranging travel, insist they will address any fears. Leeds view the trip – which will be sponsored by AYA Bank – as a chance to grow the club in Asia. Andrea Radrizzani, the Leeds owner, has business interests in Myanmar through his company, Eleven Sports, which owns a TV rights package in the region.
“Myanmar is one of the fastest growing nations in southeast Asia and is passionate about English football,” said Angus Kinnear, Leeds’ managing director. “They have ambitious goals for grass roots and elite football development that we are delighted to be able to support. This tour gives us an opportunity to meet new fans, who will hopefully support our journey back to the Premier League.”
Last month, Andrew Gilmour, the United Nations assistant secretary-general for human rights, claimed “ethnic cleansing” of Rohingya Muslims is continuing.
Chris Hall, co-chairman and secretary of the Leeds United officialsupporters’ club, said: “It seems a strange choice of country for Leeds United to play two friendly games. There are concerns for the safety of the fans who will inevitably look to travel and support their team.”