Ipswich Town has confirmed that their captain, Sam Morsy, declined to wear a LGBTQ+ rainbow armband during the Premier League’s weekend fixtures, citing religious reasons.
The league was marking its annual Rainbow Laces campaign, an initiative by Stonewall to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports. Since its launch in 2013, the campaign has sought to foster conversations around diversity and equality. This year, captains wore rainbow armbands, and many players sported rainbow-themed laces to show support.
In a statement ahead of the campaign, the Premier League highlighted its commitment to inclusivity, saying:
"During this period, the League and clubs will showcase the work they carry out year-round to embed equality, diversity, and inclusion in everything they do. This includes a range of activities and content with players, managers, and fans, as well as highlighting community and education initiatives designed to encourage discussion and promote allyship with LGBTQ+ communities. By highlighting these initiatives, the League aims to create lasting change where everyone in the football community feels a sense of belonging."
Morsy was the only Premier League captain who opted not to wear the armband. Ipswich Town, while expressing support for the Rainbow Laces campaign, stated that they respected Morsy’s decision.
“Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone,” the club said in a statement.
“We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance. 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 club also emphasized its ongoing efforts toward inclusivity, noting initiatives such as player visits to LGBTQ+ football sessions and collaborative pledges with other teams.
Sam Morsy, who has represented Egypt at the international level, joined Ipswich in 2021 and has made over 140 appearances for the club. The Wolverhampton-born midfielder has also played for clubs including Wigan Athletic, Middlesbrough, and Barnsley during his career.
‘We will continue to grow an environment where all are valued and respected, both on and off the pitch.’
Morsy, who was born in Wolverhampton but represented Egypt courtesy of his father who was born there, has made 140 appearances for Ipswich since joining the club in 2021.
The defensive midfielder has also played for Middlesbrough, Barnsley, Wigan Athletic, Chesterfield Town and Port Vale.
