FIFA orders referee to abandon the England-Spain match if players wears Poppies

FIFA has given orders to the referee to call off the England’s friendly against Spain at Wembley on Saturday if the English players use Poppies as emblems in their kit. Earlier two of the FA’s requests were rejected by FIFA on the grounds of harming the neutrality of football.

“We regret to inform you that accepting such initiatives would open the door to similar initiatives from all over the world, jeopardising the neutrality of football. Therefore, we confirm herewith that the suggested embroidery on the match shirt cannot be authorised.

“There are a variety of options where the FA can continue supporting the cause of Remembrance. One of them already was approved by Fifa, the period of silence” FIFA rejection letter read.

The Sports Minister Hugh Robertson too wrote a letter in support of both FA and FAW (Football Association of Wales) but FIFA has rejected the request from the government.

What are Poppies?

Poppies are group of flowering plants seen in red colour and they are occasionally used in remembrance of soldiers who have died during wartime. November 11’th being the ‘Remembrance Day’ FA is keen to add it to shirt of the players. While last week most of the Premier League clubs came in support with wearing poppies in their shirt.

Players too have been vocal about the governing body’s decision to ban poppies. The England and Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere wrote on twitter that his teammates should wear poppies as it is the nation’s tradition. “England team should wear poppies on Saturday. It’s the nations tradition and it would be disrespectful not to.” While the Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand wassurprised by FIFA’s decision.

The relationship between FIFA and FA were damaged five months back after the English press published reports about corruption in world football’s governing body. If FA goes ahead with the emblems in their kit on Saturday things will only get worse.