Quebec soccer federation cites safety in banning turbans on field, but with scant evidence

MONTREAL – The Quebec Soccer Federation insists that its ban on turbans is tied to player safety, although it has produced no evidence to support the claim.

The federation held a conference call Monday to explain its weekend decision to uphold the ban. Quebec is the only province in Canada that has balked at allowing turbans on the field. As a result, about 100 to 200 youngsters are unable to play.

Brigitte Frot, the director general of the provincial association, says the reason to maintain the ban is for player safety. But when asked how many injuries have been linked to turbans she said there are none.

She says the group is taking its cues from soccer's international governing body, which does not explicitly state that such headwear is allowed. She says if people want to change the policy they should contact FIFA.