MONTREAL -- The Canadian Soccer Association says it has suspended a provincial association over its refusal to let turban-wearing children play.
The organization says it had to intervene because the Quebec Soccer Federation showed no sign of overturning its decision to restrict turban-wearing Sikhs from the pitch.
"The Quebec Soccer Federation's inaction has forced us to take measures in order to ensure soccer remains accessible to the largest number of Canadians," it said in a statement Monday night.
The national organization said last week it expected the Quebec association to reverse the ban, which has drawn international news coverage and condemnation from several federal politicians.
Some of those who opposed the ban said they welcomed the national body's tough-love approach.
Immigration Minister Jason Kenney tweeted his approval: "Good to see CDN Soccer Association take action against the Quebec Soccer Federation over its ridiculous turban ban."
Quebec's federation says it's concerned about safety and points out that the rules of the world governing body, FIFA, don't specifically allow turbans.
Critics of the Quebec decision point out that FIFA's rules don't explicitly ban turbans, either.
The Canadian association says it will lift the suspension once it has proof the Quebec federation has revoked the ban.
