- Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi will not face FA sanctions for writing "I love Jesus" on a rainbow armband during the Rainbow Laces campaign match
- The FA decided against formal charges but will remind Guehi of rules banning religious or political messaging on match equipment
- Guehi’s faith-driven gesture contrasts with the campaign's focus on LGBTQ+ inclusivity
In a decision that has sparked widespread discussion, the Football Association (FA) has confirmed that Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi will not face any charges after writing the phrase “I love Jesus” on his rainbow-coloured captain's armband during a 1-1 Premier League draw against Newcastle United.
Guehi's handwritten message raised concerns about potential disciplinary action, as the rainbow armband was part of the Stonewall Rainbow Laces campaign, which promotes LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity.
The FA announced that while no formal action would be taken, they would remind the 24-year-old of regulations prohibiting religious messaging on equipment used during matches.
According to the Laws of the Game, players are banned from displaying “political, religious, or personal slogans, statements, or images.” These rules, outlined under Law 4, empower governing bodies to impose sanctions for breaches.
Guehi, a devout Christian and the son of a church minister has openly spoken about his faith’s significance in his life. In a 2021 interview with The Athletic, he described faith as central to everything he does, including his role in football, where he aims to be a role model. His gesture during the match, however, was seen by some as conflicting with the campaign's intent to champion LGBTQ+ inclusion.
The Rainbow Laces initiative has been a key part of the Premier League's efforts to support LGBTQ+ rights. In the just-concluded matchweek, all 20 Premier League captains wore rainbow armbands to mark the campaign.
Notably, Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy chose to opt out of wearing the armband, citing religious beliefs. Instead, Morsy donned a standard black armband, a decision supported by his club, which issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity while respecting individual choices.
The FA’s decision has drawn comparisons to past incidents, including Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's 2018 fine of £20,000 for wearing a yellow ribbon in support of Catalonian political prisoners. While the FA’s current approach appears more lenient, it only shows the challenges of balancing personal expression with the rules governing football's global platform.
Guehi’s Crystal Palace side is set to face Ipswich Town today, December 3, where the rainbow armband will make another appearance in the campaign.
Iwobi bags assist as Fulham edge Crystal Palace at home
Previously, TheRadar reported that Super Eagles Alex Iwobi’s assist helped Fulham secure a 2-0 win over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday, November 9, Fulham has now gone unbeaten in their last 3 consecutive games.
The Nigerian international set up Emile Smith Rowe, who struck first for Fulham just before halftime.
