Ipswich Town have disclosed that their captain, Sam Morsy, opted not to wear a rainbow armband in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community due to his religious convictions. The Premier League and its member clubs championed equality and diversity during the recent matchdays as a part of Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces initiative. Morsy, a devout Muslim, captained Ipswich in their 1-0 loss against Nottingham Forest. The 33-year-old, born in Britain and an international player for Egypt, was the sole captain among the 20 top-flight teams who did not don the rainbow armband.
Ipswich expressed that they "respect the decision" but remain "dedicated to being a fully inclusive club". Alongside rainbow armbands and boot laces, specialized pitch flags, ball plinths, handshake boards, and substitute boards were utilized across Premier League venues to endorse the campaign. "Ipswich Town Football Club is dedicated to being a fully inclusive club that embraces everyone," a club statement read. "We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand united with the LGBTQ+ community in advocating for equality and acceptance."
During this year’s campaign, players from the club’s men’s and women’s first teams attended the foundation’s weekly LGBTQ+ football session, and the club also pledged solidarity and inclusivity alongside Nottingham Forest before Saturday’s match. A series of additional initiatives are scheduled for Tuesday’s home game against Crystal Palace, including a takeover of the stadium’s big screen moments before 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 foster an environment where all are valued and respected, both on and off the pitch.
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