Pink makes bold statement in support of Norwegian women's volleyball team after 'sexist' fine

Pink has voiced her support for the Norwegian women's volleyball team after they were penalized for breaching uniform rules at a recent match, even offering to pay their controversial fine. 

The Cover Me in Sunshine singer took to Twitter on Sunday to show solidarity with Norway's volleyball team, who received a hefty $1,765 (£1,283) fine for refusing to wear bikini bottoms at their match against Spain in the European Beach Handball Championships last week. 

The European Handball Federation (EHF) imposed the sanction for "improper clothing" after the team turned up to play the bronze medal game in shorts, a garment that is not in accordance with the uniform regulations for female players. 

The penalty prompted major backlash from the public and celebrities alike, many of whom were stunned by the archaic policy. Singer Pink didn't hold back in her objection to the EHF, slamming their rules as "sexist". 

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"I’m VERY proud of the Norwegian female beach handball team FOR PROTESTING THE VERY SEXIST RULES ABOUT THEIR 'uniform'," the So What singer tweeted to her 31.6m followers. "The European handball federation SHOULD BE FINED FOR SEXISM."

She even offered to cover the cost of the fine, adding, "Good on ya, ladies. I’ll be happy to pay your fines for you. Keep it up." 

According to the Athlete Uniform Regulations in the IHF Beach Handball Rules of the Game, women must wear bikini bottoms and a sports bra when playing official games. Men, on the other hand, can wear shorts and a vest shirt. 

In response to the positive reaction to their decision, the Norweigan women's volleyball team took to Instagram to thank their allies. "Thank you so much for all the support ❤️🥺 We really appreciate all the love we have received🙏🏼You’re the best 👊🏼💥" they wrote. 

The decision of the Norwegian women's volleyball team to flout the uniform rules was supported by the Norwegian Handball Federation (NHF), the country’s national handball association. The athletic organization also offered to pay the fine, which amounts to about $176 for each player. 

"I got a message 10 minutes before the match that they would wear the clothing that they were satisfied with. And they got our full support,” said Kåre Geir Lio, NHF President. 

In light of the negative reaction to the fine, the EHF has announced it will reassess its uniform rules. 

“I can confirm that the EHF will do all it can to ensure that a change of athlete uniform regulations can be implemented,” EHF President Michael Wiederer wrote in a statement. “Significant efforts will be made in order to further promote the sport in the best way possible for everyone, regardless of gender."