Why Ipswich Captain, Sam Morsy Refused To Wear Rainbow Armband In Support Of LGBTQ+

Ipswich Town has revealed that the club captain, Sam Morsy refused to wear a rainbow armband during Saturday’s Premier League match against Nottingham Forest, due to his religious beliefs.

The Premier League is participating in Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign, an initiative supporting LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports, running from 29 November to 5 December.

As part of the Rainbow Laces campaign, Premier League grounds featured more than just rainbow armbands and boot laces. Custom pitch flags, ball plinths, handshake boards, and substitute boards were also used to show support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports.

During the 1-0 loss at Forest, Sam Morsy, a 33-year-old Egyptian international, opted out of wearing the rainbow captain’s armband.

Ipswich is set to continue its involvement in the campaign during their upcoming match against Crystal Palace on Tuesday.

In a statement on Monday, Ipswich Town reaffirmed its dedication to inclusivity and its support for the LGBTQ+ community but emphasized respect for Morsy’s personal choice.

“Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone,” the club stated on Monday.

“We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance.

The statement highlighted the club’s ongoing efforts, including visits by players from both men’s and women’s teams to an LGBTQ+ football session run by the Ipswich Town Foundation.

“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.

“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,” the club concluded.

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