ESPN has learned that Crystal Palace and England centre-back Marc Guéhi could face an English Football Association (FA) charge after writing “I love Jesus” on his rainbow-coloured captain’s armband for Saturday’s 1-1 draw at home to Newcastle United.
The 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.
The Laws of the Game allow “initiative slogans/emblems promoting the game of football, respect and integrity,” such as Rainbow Laces, but forbid “political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images.”
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 chose to write the religious slogan on an armband supporting LGBTQ+ issues could be seen as an aggravating factor.
Football Association kit rules underline that “the appearance on, or incorporation in, any item of Clothing … Any political or religious message” is forbidden and “disciplinary action may be taken” for “any breach of these Regulations.”
Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy, who is a practising Muslim, was the only skipper who refused to wear the armband, and instead wore the usual black version.
“Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone,” an Ipswich statement said. “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.
“We will continue to grow an environment where all are valued and respected, both on and off the pitch.”
