Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy has chosen not to wear the rainbow armband during the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign, citing his religious beliefs. Stonewall charity is organizing the campaign, which runs from 29 November to 5 December, to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport.
Morsy, 33, was the only player not to wear the armband during Ipswich’s 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest on Saturday, with the club also hosting Crystal Palace on Tuesday as part of the campaign. In a statement, Ipswich reiterated their commitment to inclusivity, emphasizing that they “proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign” and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance.
“Ipswich Town Football Club is a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone,” the statement said. “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, and we made a joint pledge of solidarity alongside Nottingham Forest ahead of Saturday’s game.”
Despite this, the club also respected Morsy’s decision, adding, “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.”
Morsy’s decision has sparked mixed reactions, including from prominent figures within the LGBTQ+ football community. Former Wales captain Laura McAllister, who now serves as vice-president of UEFA, expressed her disappointment.
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, McAllister said: “I think there has to be an element of individual choice, but I’m really disappointed because a captain represents the team, the club, and everyone associated with it, including LGBTQ+ people. If someone’s religious beliefs prevent them from supporting inclusivity and diversity, I think that’s a real shame.”
She added, “Being a captain comes with a big responsibility, and that includes making football a game for everyone. The rainbow armband symbolizes that inclusivity, so it’s disappointing, but we should focus on the positivity from the other captains who are championing equal rights.”
Ipswich Town’s commitment to inclusivity remains unchanged, with various initiatives planned for the remainder of the campaign. The club’s statement emphasized that while they respect Morsy’s personal choice, the wider message of acceptance and diversity continues to be a central focus for Ipswich.
