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Summary
Footballs world governing body has kicked Irans girls team out of the Youth Olympic Games in a row over wearing the hijab head scarf, in the latest controversy to arise involving female Islamic dress. FIFA barred the Iranian team from competing after rejecting a request by the countrys National Olympic Committee to reverse its ban on religious clothing, the news agency said, citing a statement by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Taking into consideration the clear position stated by the (Olympic committee) of Iran, the FIFA Executive Committee had no choice but to take the decision that (Iran) will not be able to participate, FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke said in the statement. FIFAs international rule book states basic compulsory equipment must not have any political, religious or personal statements. The team of a player whose basic compulsory equipment has political, religious or personal slogans or statements will be sanctioned by the competition organiser or by FIFA, the rules state. Iran was scheduled to compete in a six-nation tournament for girls at the inaugural Youth Olympics being held Aug. 12-25 in Singapore, adding that some 3,600 athletes aged 14-18 will compete in 26 sports. Thailand has been nominated to replace the Iranians and will represent Asia against Turkey, Equatorial Guinea, Trinidad and Tobago, Chile and Papua New Guinea.
