Crystal Palace's Marc Guéhi faces disciplinary action from the FA after altering his rainbow captain's armband to include the message "I love Jesus" during a Premier League match. His modification may breach rules that prohibit religious, political, or personal messages on football attire, including the Rainbow Laces campaign.
Marc Guéhi, the Crystal Palace and England center-back, is facing a potential disciplinary charge from the English Football Association (FA) after adding the message “I love Jesus” to his rainbow-colored captain’s armband during Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Newcastle United. The rainbow armbands, which were distributed by the Premier League to all 20 clubs in support of the LGBTQ+ community, are part of the Stonewall Rainbow Laces campaign. Guéhi’s modification of the armband may be considered a violation of the Laws of the Game, specifically Law 4, which prohibits political, religious, or personal slogans on football attire.
The FA’s kit regulations also strictly forbid religious or political messages, with the potential for disciplinary action if breached. Guéhi’s decision to personalize the armband with a religious message, rather than adhering to the intended LGBTQ+ support, could exacerbate the issue. Meanwhile, Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy, a practicing Muslim, chose not to wear the rainbow armband and instead wore a standard black one, with the club supporting his decision while reaffirming their commitment to inclusivity. The FA has yet to comment on the incident, but Guéhi may face consequences for his actions.
