By Andrew Warshaw
November 5 – FIFA have been quick to launch a clarification after war veterans condemned them for refusing to allow the England team to wear poppies on their shirts when they play world champions Spain at Wembley Stadium on November 12 – on the eve of Remembrance Sunday.
FIFA rules mean no changes can be made to official kit but George Batt, general secretary of the Normandy Veterans Association, described the ruling as “disgraceful”.
The 86-year-old, who fought in the Second World War, said: “I don’t really understand it.
“I can’t see any harm in wearing a poppy.
“You surely don’t need rules and regulations in FIFA like this.
“It’s so sad.”
The Poppy Appeal, which is in its 90th year, is run by the Royal British Legion and money raised helps thousands of serving and ex-service men and women and their families.
But while football officials and fans are free to wear a poppy, it does not extend to players, FIFA said.
“FIFA’s Regulations regarding Players’ Equipment are that they should not carry any political, religious or commercial messages,” a statement said.
“FIFA has 208 Member Associations and the same regulations are applied globally, and uniformally, in the event of similar requests by other nations to commemorate historical events.
“FIFA has been in regular contact with The FA (Football Asscoiation) in recent weeks regarding their request for the poppy emblem to be worn on the national shirt. FIFA understands the wish of The FA to respect and commemorate the lives of members of their armed forces, and following further correspondence has approved.
“The FA’s request for a minute’s silence to be observed prior to kick-off, when England host the reigning European and world champions Spain at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 12 November.”
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