Sam Morsy: Ipswich Town captain did not wear rainbow armband because of ‘religious beliefs’
Ipswich captain Sam Morsy did not wear a shirt during Saturday’s Premier League defeat at Nottingham Forest due to “religious beliefs”, his club said Rainbow armband.
Premier League clubs are showing their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport by taking part in charity Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces event, which runs from 29 November to 5 December.
However, Egypt international Morsi, 33, chose not to wear the rainbow captain’s armband in the 1-0 loss to Forest, with Ipswich also hosting Crystal Palace on Tuesday.
Ipswich reiterated their commitment to “being a fully inclusive club where everyone is welcome” but added they respect midfielder Morsi’s decision.
“We are proud to support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and work with the LGBTQ+ community to promote equality and acceptance,” Ipswich said in a statement on Monday.
“As part of this year’s event, members of the club’s men’s and women’s first teams visited our foundation’s weekly LGBTQ+ football sessions, while the club also made a joint commitment to unity and inclusion with Nottingham Forest ahead of Saturday’s game.
“A number of further initiatives are planned around Tuesday’s home game against Crystal Palace, including taking over the stadium’s big screen ahead of kick-off.
“At the same time, we respect the decision of captain Sam Morsy who has chosen not to wear the rainbow armband due to his religious beliefs.”
