FIFA's Headscarf Ban Becomes `Political Football'
FIFA's headscarve ban has become a political football, sparking outrage across the world from players and fans. While the UN has asked soccer's world governing body to overturn its decision not to allow women to wear Hijab (the Islamic headscarf) during game play, Prince Ali Al Hussein of Jordan, at 36 the youngest member of FIFA`s executive committee, will address the International Football Association Board (IFAB) at its annual meeting in England on Saturday. On Thursday he said he would be very disappointed for millions of women players if IFAB did not sanction its use, reversing a decision it made in March 2007. "It is not a religious garment, it is a matter of culture. It`s prejudice. It's not fair. It has to be dealt with. Long sleeves & leggings are already allowed." CAF, the African confederation, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), & a number of Premier League players have given their support to wearing Hijab. Additionally, a number of sports already allow Hijab including rugby, fencing, netball & taekwando. (Read More at Bangkok Post)