One of the most recognizable rules in all of sports is no longer. The New York Yankees announced Friday morning that they will allow “well-groomed beards” moving forward.
“In recent weeks I have spoken to a large number of former and current Yankees — spanning several eras — to elicit their perspectives on our longstanding facial hair and grooming policy, and I appreciate their earnest and varied feedback,” Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner said in a statement.
“These most recent conversations are an extension of ongoing internal dialogue that dates back several years. Ultimately the final decision rests with me, and after great consideration, we will be amending our expectations to allow our players and uniformed personnel to have well-groomed beards moving forward. It is the appropriate time to move beyond the familiar comfort of our former policy.”
The rule has been in place since 1976 when Hal’s father, George, instituted it for his club.
Players were allowed to have mustaches and hair that did not extend past the collar of their uniforms.
New Yankees closer Devin Williams showed up to report day with a full beard, took team pictures with noticeable facial hair and wasn’t happy about needing to shave. Now, he won’t have to worry about it moving forward.
This story will be updated.
GO DEEPER
From Oscar Gamble to Lou Piniella, the origins of the Yankees’ war on long hair
(Photo: New York Yankees / Getty Images)