Linux freedom confusion

I thought they don't include nonfree firmware as I heard Linus doesn't allow any binary stuff in the kernel. Not sure if that has changed lately.

I've seen one guy in this week's Distrowatch weekly comments make this prediction though:

Just search for "keyspan" in the Linux source code...

/* keyspan_usa19qi_fw.h
  
        The firmware contained herein as keyspn_usa19qi_fw.h is
 
                Copyright (C) 1999-2001
                Keyspan, A division of InnoSys Incorporated ("Keyspan")
                 
        as an unpublished work. This notice does not imply unrestricted or
        public access to the source code from which this firmware image is
        derived.  Except as noted below this firmware image may not be
        reproduced, used, sold or transferred to any third party without
        Keyspan's prior written consent.  All Rights Reserved.
 
        Permission is hereby granted for the distribution of this firmware
        image as part of a Linux or other Open Source operating system kernel
        in text or binary form as required.
 
        This firmware may not be modified and may only be used with
        Keyspan hardware.  Distribution and/or Modification of the
        keyspan.c driver which includes this firmware, in whole or in
        part, requires the inclusion of this statement."
 
*/