Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi avoided FA action after wearing Christian messages on his armband during Premier League matches. Despite the FA's reminder about kit regulations banning religious symbols, Guehi continued expressing his beliefs with “I love Jesus” and “Jesus loves you” messages, sparking debate on religious expression in sports.
Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi will not face any disciplinary action from the Football Association (FA) despite wearing armbands with Christian messages, in defiance of FA regulations. Guehi, who wore an armband with the message “I love Jesus” during the team's 1-1 draw with Newcastle, was reminded by the FA that religious messages are not allowed on armbands as per kit regulations. The 24-year-old defender wore another armband reading “Jesus loves you” during the team’s 1-0 win over Ipswich, and despite this, the FA chose not to take further action.
The controversy arose during the Premier League's Rainbow Laces campaign, which supports LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport. Crystal Palace and Guehi had been reminded of the rules prohibiting religious messages, though the club and player expressed their respect for all opinions, and manager Oliver Glasner urged for calm.
Guehi’s father, John, a church minister, defended his son, stating that Guehi did not offend anyone by expressing his faith and questioned why the FA allowed religious symbols like "God Save the King" and hymns at matches while reprimanding Guehi. Stonewall, the charity backing the campaign, emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive environment, welcoming individuals' choices to express their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion.
