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Josh Cavallo, who made history in 2021 by becoming the first man to come out as gay while playing elite football, has accused his former club Adelaide United of being homophobic.
Cavallo, 26, left Adelaide after making no appearances in the 2024/25 campaign and now plays in the UK with semi-professional side Stamford AFC.
In an Instagram post, the 26-year-old Australian said: “It took me a while to digest the end of my time at Adelaide United, but I think the fans deserve honesty.
“Leaving the club had nothing to do with football. Decisions were made by people in power who blocked my opportunities, not because of my talent, but because of who I chose to love.
“It became clear that I was not allowed on the pitch for political reasons. It was difficult to swallow when I realized that my own club was homophobic.
“I was angry because people thought I was being sidelined because of my injuries, when in reality it was internal homophobia that kept me on the bench.”
Adelaide United have rejected Cavallo’s allegations.
The club’s statement read: “Adelaide United is aware of a statement posted on social media this morning by former player Josh Cavallo.
“The club is extremely disappointed by the claims made and categorically rejects the allegations, including any suggestion that Adelaide United are homophobic. All on-field decisions regarding team selection are made on football grounds only.
Josh Cavallo has left Adelaide United in 2025 after failing to make an appearance in the 2024/25 season.
“Adelaide United has always been committed to fostering an inclusive environment for players, staff and supporters and we remain proud of our continued work to promote inclusion in football.
“Building inclusiveness must remain an ongoing priority for the game, and the club looks forward to hosting the fourth annual Pride Cup this weekend against Melbourne Victory.
“The club will make no further comment at this time.”
Josh Cavallo made history after becoming the first openly gay footballer after coming out in 2021
The footballer ended his message by saying: “This new start in the UK has helped me breathe again and I hope I can fall back in love with this sport which means everything to me.
“Despite how this ended up behind the scenes, I refuse to let this ruin my connection to this city.
“Adelaide is where I found my wings.
“To the fans and supporters: thank you for your passion and support. You deserve honesty and success. You have been incredible to play in front of. Thank you.”
Cavallo’s coming out paved the way for other LGBT+ footballers and athletes, such as Jake Daniels, who in 2022 became the first male professional player in Britain to come out as gay since Justin Fashanu in 1990.
