Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi wrote “Jesus loves you” on his rainbow-coloured captain’s armband against Ipswich Town on Tuesday despite a reminder from England’s Football Association (FA) over religious messages.
The rainbow-coloured armbands, which feature the branding of Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign in support of the LGBTQ+ community, were issued to all 20 Premier League clubs ahead of last weekend’s matches.
Geuhi escaped being charged by the FA when he wrote “I love Jesus” on his rainbow armband for Palace’s Premier League clash against Newcastle United on Saturday.
Instead, the FA reminded Palace and Guehi about their responsibilties that the appearance of a religious message on any item of clothing is prohibited as stated in Rule A4 of the FA’s kit and advertising regulations.
ESPN has approached the FA for comment.
Law 4 goes on to say that “for any offence the player and/or the team will be sanctioned by the competition organiser, national football association or by FIFA.”
A modification was made to the law last summer to make it clear that all captains “must wear an armband which is simple and conforms to the requirements of Law 4 relating to slogans, statements, images and advertising.”
That Guéhi, a devout Christian, chose to write the religious slogan on an armband supporting LGBTQ+ issues could been seen as an aggravating factor.
Ipswich midfielder Sam Morsy, who is a practicing Muslim, was the only captain to refuse to wear the armband last weekend. He again wore the usual black version for the clash with Palace on Tuesday.
The FA considers Morsy’s decision to be a matter for the club and the individual and does not contravene any kit regulations.
