Ipswich have revealed their captain, Sam Morsy, chose not to wear a rainbow armband in support of the LGBTQ+ community owing to his religious beliefs. The Premier League and its clubs promoted equality and diversity during the weekend fixtures as part of Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign.
Morsy, who is a practising Muslim, led Ipswich during their 1-0 defeat at Nottingham Forest. The 33-year-old, a Britain-born Egypt interntional, was the only one of the 20 top-flight captains in action not to wear the rainbow armband.
Ipswich said they “respect the decision” but are “committed to being a fully inclusive club”. In addition to rainbow armbands and boot laces, bespoke pitch flags, ball plinths, handshake boards and substitute boards were used at Premier League grounds to support the campaign.
“Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone,” a club statement said. “We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance.
“During this year’s campaign, members of the club’s men’s and women’s first teams visited our foundation’s weekly LGBTQ+ football session, while the club also made a joint pledge of solidarity and inclusivity alongside Nottingham Forest ahead of Saturday’s game.
“A range of further initiatives are planned around Tuesday’s home game with Crystal Palace, including a takeover of the stadium’s big screen in the moments prior to kick-off.
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“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. We will continue to grow an environment where all are valued and respected, both on and off the pitch.”
