Quebec soccer body reverses its turban ban

In a big relief for the Sikh community, the Quebec Soccer Federation (QSF) has been forced to withdraw its turban ban on Sikh footballers.

QSF apologised for hurting the Sikh sentiments and in a press conference on Sunday announced reversal of its ban on players wearing turbans or related religious headwear on the pitch.

QSF said it is pleased with the international soccer body FIFA's clarification on the issue, and it's "deeply sorry" if anyone was offended.

At the federation's Laval, Que. headquarters, QSF executive-director Brigitte Frot said they are asking all referees in the province to allow turbans and similar head coverings like patkas and keski, as advised by FIFA.

"Our goal was always to have confirmation that the wearing of a turban was allowed by FIFA. And of course, we're delighted that FIFA was able to answer our questions and remove any ambiguity," said Frot.

QSF's decision to ban Sikh head coverings triggered a public outcry in the country and also forced the Canadian Soccer Association (CSA) to ban the Quebec federation .

"As the governing body of soccer in Canada we will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure the integrity of our game, our membership, and players," Victor Montagliani, President of the Canadian Soccer Association (CSA) in a statement.

"As the governing body of soccer in Canada we will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure the integrity of our game, our membership, and players," Victor Montagliani, President of the Canadian Soccer Association (CSA) in a statement.

The CSA in April had issued a directive asking all its provincial and territorial member associations to allow male players to wear head scarves. But the Quebec federation was the only one that didn't adhere and were suspended.