Crystal Palace and England defender Marc Guehi may face disciplinary action from the English Football Association (FA) after writing “I love Jesus” on his rainbow-colored captain’s armband during Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Newcastle United.
The armbands, provided to all 20 Premier League clubs, are part of Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign, which promotes LGBTQ+ inclusion in football.
However, FA regulations explicitly ban political, religious, or personal slogans, statements, or images on kit.
Revised guidelines introduced last summer reinforced that all captains’ armbands must adhere to these standards, warning that violations could result in sanctions from competition organizers, national football associations, or FIFA.
By inscribing a religious message on an armband intended to symbolize support for the LGBTQ+ community, Guehi may have breached these rules.
The move could also be considered an aggravating factor under the guidelines.
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FA kit regulations specify that “any political or religious message” on clothing is prohibited and warn that violations may prompt disciplinary action.
The incident has sparked comparisons to Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy, a practicing Muslim, who declined to wear the rainbow armband and instead opted for a standard black version.
Ipswich Town released a statement supporting Morsy’s decision: “Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone,” the statement read.
“At the same time, we respect the decision of our captain Sam Morsy, who has chosen not to wear the rainbow captain’s armband due to his religious beliefs.
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