Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy was the only Premier League skipper who chose not to wear the rainbow armband during this weekend’s Rainbow Laces campaign fixtures.
The 33-year-old midfielder, who is a practising Muslim, made the decision based on his religious beliefs during his side’s 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest.
The Premier League and its clubs promoted equality and diversity across the weekend’s matches as part of the initiative in partnership with LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall.
Ipswich Town have defended their captain’s choice whilst maintaining their commitment to inclusivity.
Sam Morsy decided against wearing the armband due to his faith
Reuters
An Ipswich spokesperson said: “Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone.
“We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance.”
“At the same time, we respect the decision of our captain Sam Morsy, who has chosen not to wear the rainbow captain’s armband, due to his religious beliefs,” the club added.
Morsy, who has earned nine caps for Egypt, has previously spoken about the importance of his faith.
“My faith gives me balance,” he told the Professional Footballers’ Association last year.
The club highlighted their ongoing commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion through various initiatives.
Members of both Ipswich’s men’s and women’s first teams visited the club foundation’s weekly LGBTQ+ football session as part of this year’s campaign.
The club also made a joint pledge of solidarity and inclusivity with Nottingham Forest ahead of Saturday’s match.
Sam Morsy was the only Premier League captain not to wear the rainbow-coloured armband
PA
Further activities are planned for Tuesday’s home fixture against Crystal Palace, including special content on the stadium’s big screen before kick-off.
“We will continue to grow an environment where all are valued and respected, both on and off the pitch,” the club statement concluded.
The Rainbow Laces campaign saw widespread support across Premier League grounds this weekend.
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Ipswich Town defended Sam Morsy’s decision not to don the rainbow armband
Reuters
Alongside the captain’s armbands, the initiative featured rainbow-themed pitch flags, ball plinths, handshake boards and substitute boards at matches.
A Stonewall spokesperson commented on Morsy’s decision: “It has been incredible to see so many football teams at all levels support our Rainbow Laces campaign to make sport safer and more inclusive for all.”
“When clubs like Ipswich Town FC show their support, it helps people feel safe and welcome both on and off the pitch,” they added.
The charity confirmed that individuals can choose if and how they show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport.
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