Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi will receive a formal reminder from the Football Association after writing “I love Jesus” on his rainbow-coloured captain’s armband during Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Newcastle.
The FA will contact both the 24-year-old England international and his club to remind them that religious messaging is prohibited on equipment used in Premier League matches.
The message was handwritten on the rainbow armband, which was issued as part of the Premier League’s support for Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign.
The governing body has decided against formal disciplinary action on this occasion.
Marc Guehi is set to receive a formal warning from the FA
PA
The Laws of the Game explicitly forbid players from displaying “political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images” on equipment.
Rule A4 of the FA’s kit and advertising regulations specifically prohibits “the appearance on, or incorporation in, any item of clothing, football boots or other equipment of any religious message”.
The FA has declined to comment on whether any repeat of such messaging by Guehi could result in formal charges.
Guehi, who has previously spoken about his devout religious beliefs, faces the reminder ahead of Palace’s midweek fixture against Ipswich Town.
The Rainbow Laces campaign runs from 29 November to 5 December, promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion across football and beyond.
All 20 Premier League captains were issued with rainbow-coloured armbands to show support for the initiative, which is run in partnership with charity Stonewall.
A Stonewall spokesperson said: “It has been incredible to see so many football teams at all levels support our campaign to make sport safer and more inclusive for all.”
Marc Guehi is devoutly Christian
PA
Morsy’s decision was based on his religious beliefs as a practising Muslim, with Ipswich Town issuing a statement supporting his choice.
The club emphasised they “welcome everybody” while “respect[ing] the decision” of their captain to wear the standard black armband instead.
Rainbow Tractors, an Ipswich LGBTQ+ supporters group, expressed disappointment in Morsy’s decision.
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“When we see clubs show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion, it helps people feel safe and welcome both on and off the pitch,” they added.
The campaign continues through this week’s midweek fixtures.
In contrast to Guehi’s modified armband, Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy opted not to wear the rainbow armband at all during Saturday’s match at Nottingham Forest.
The FA has confirmed no action will be taken regarding Morsy’s choice, viewing it as a matter between the player and his club.