Ipswich back Morsy's decision not to wear rainbow armband

Ipswich Town's Sam Morsy wearing a standard captain's armband during the Premier League match at Portman Road, Ipswich. Picture date: Tuesday December 3, 2024.

by Austin Ditlhobolo

Wednesday Dec 04, 2024. 15:00

Egypt international Sam Morsy has been backed by Ipswich Town after he failed to wear the rainbow armband during the club’s English Premier League match against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

The defensive midfielder, who was born in Wolverhampton, England, is a practicing Muslim and the armbands are being worn as part of the Premier League’s ‘Rainbow Laces’ campaign to show support for people in the LGBTQ+ community across football and beyond.

Morsy, 33, was reportedly the only Premier League captain who did not wear the rainbow armband during the fixtures which took place between Friday, November 29, and Sunday, December 1, and his club has since issued the following statement.

“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,” a club statement read.

“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.

“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.”