Ipswich skipper’s reason to reject Rainbow armband revealed as he was the only skipper to put on a regular captain’s armband
Ipswich skipper Sam Morsy came under the scanner after refusing to wear the rainbow armband in support of the LGBTQIA+ community. He was the only skipper to wear a regular captain’s armband this game week.
From November 29 to December 5, Premier League clubs will participate in Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign, a charity that promotes LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports.
But in the 1-0 loss against Forest, 33-year-old Egypt international Morsy declined to don the rainbow captain’s armband. On Tuesday, Ipswich also hosts Crystal Palace as part of the campaign.
“Being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone” is something Ipswich reaffirmed, but they also said they respect midfielder Morsy’s decision.
“We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance,” Ipswich said in a statement on Monday.
“During this year’ 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.
“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 tractor boys are currently second from bottom in the Premier League, with only a solitary win in their first 13 games. This is their first season in the top flight after a long absence of 25 years.