Impact's Saputo backs turbans in soccer, but opposes federation's suspension

MONTREAL - The president of the Montreal Impact says kids should not be prevented from playing soccer because they wear a turban.

But Joey Saputo says the Canadian Soccer Association's decision to suspend Quebec's federation over the issue is "clearly exaggerated."

Saputo is making the comments one day after the Quebec Soccer Federation was suspended over its refusal to let turban-wearing children play the game.

He says in a statement the Quebec organization's decision to ban turbans was based on a FIFA rule that is open to interpretation.

The head of the Major League Soccer franchise says accusations of racism against the provincial federation are uncalled for considering the context of the Quebec body's decision.

Saputo says the Canadian Soccer Association made a recommendation to provincial federations — but that it did not reveal its own position.

He says he hopes all sides will come to an agreement on the debate for the good of the sport.