Guehi with the rainbow armband
England and Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi could face an FA charge after writing “I love Jesus” on his rainbow captain’s armband during a match against Newcastle on Saturday, November 30, 2024.
The Football Association’s (FA) rules prohibit “any political or religious message” on a captain’s armband. As a result, disciplinary action may be taken against the young center-back.
The regulations state that a player should be sanctioned if these rules are breached. A modification made to the law last summer clarified that captains must wear an armband that is simple and conforms to the FA’s Law 4 requirements, which cover slogans, statements, images, and advertising.
Guéhi’s decision to write the religious slogan on an armband used to take part in charity Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign between 29 November and 5 December issues could be seen as an aggravating factor, potentially leading to a charge from the FA.
While Guéhi could face disciplinary measures, Ipswich Town released a statement on Monday, December 2, 2024, supporting their captain, Sam Morsy, for opting not to wear the rainbow armband during their game against Nottingham Forest due to his religious beliefs.
FKA/EK
