Feyenoord's captain refuses to wear armband featuring rainbow symbol

By Emre Asikci

ISTANBUL (AA) - Feyenoord's Turkish captain Orkun Kokcu refused to wear a rainbow armband in a Eredivisie match against AZ Alkmaar on Sunday.

"I have decided not to wear the rainbow captain's armband for this round. I think it is important to emphasize that I respect everyone regardless of religion, background or preference. I believe that everyone is free to do what they want or feel. I fully understand the importance of this action, but because of my religious beliefs, I don't feel the right person to support this," Kokcu said on Feyenoord's official website.

"That's why I don't feel comfortable wearing this captain's armband. I can imagine some people are disappointed with this. That is absolutely not my intention, although I realize that I may not immediately be able to take away that feeling with these words. But I hope that my religious choice is also respected," he added

As a result, Austrian defender Gernot Trauner kicked off the match with the captain's armband.

Feyenoord claimed a 3-1 road win over Az Alkmaar as Kokcu played 90 minutes and converted a penalty goal in the 31st minute.

Kokcu, who helped Feyenoord win the 2019 Dutch Super Cup, has netted 25 goals and made 24 assists in 142 matches for his side.

The 21-year-old midfielder made 17 appearances, scoring one goal for Türkiye.