FIFA will allow religious head coverings for players

(JTA) — The FIFA world soccer association has approved wearing head coverings for religious reasons during official matches.

The approval announced on Saturday will allow Muslim women to cover their heads with a hijab or their faces with a veil, and will allow Jewish men to wear a kippah, among others.

The head covering must be the same color as the uniform, according to the International Football Association Board.

The decision came after a two-year trial period. Until then, coverings were not allowed because the FIFA believed them to be a safety risk. The trial came upon request from the Sikh community of Canada, AFP reported.

Last month, Israel’s soccer association suspended its ban on wearing kippot for its minor leagues.

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