Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi issued FA reprimand over 'I love Jesus' message on Rainbow armband

Crystal Palace and their defender Marc Guehi have received a formal warning from the FA regarding his choice to inscribe 'I love Jesus' on his Rainbow captain's armband during the draw with Newcastle, but he will not face any charges.

Guehi altered the Rainbow armband he donned in Palace's match against Newcastle on Saturday, which could have led to an FA charge.

The FA's Law 4 permits "initiative slogans/emblems promoting the game of football, respect and integrity," like the Rainbow Laces campaign, but prohibits "political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images."

However, the Mirror report that the FA have chosen to 'formally remind' Palace and Guehi that displaying any religious message on clothing, boots, or other equipment is against Rule A4 of the kit and advertising regulations.

This formal reminder means neither Guehi nor Crystal Palace will be charged by the FA. In the match against Newcastle, Guehi was responsible for an own goal before Daniel Munoz secured a late equaliser for Palace.

Guehi is known for his strong Christian faith, with his father serving as a church minister. The game against Newcastle was Palace's designated match for the Rainbow Laces campaign, which marked its 11th year of promoting LGBT+ inclusion in the Premier League.

Meanwhile, Ipswich are setting off for their Tuesday night clash against Crystal Palace, with skipper Sam Morsy making headlines shunning the captain's rainbow armband for religious reasons.

An Ipswich spokesperson stated: "Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone. We proudly support the Premier League's Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance".

The spokesperson continued to detail the club's involvement: "During this year's campaign, members of the club's men's and women's first-teams visited our Foundation's weekly LGBTQ+ football session, while the club also made a joint pledge of solidarity and inclusivity alongside Nottingham Forest ahead of Saturday's game."

Additionally, they outlined further plans: "A range of further initiatives are planned around Tuesday's home game with Crystal Palace, including a takeover of the stadium's big screen in the moments prior to kick-off."

Moreover, the statement addressed the captain's decision: "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."

The FA have not confirmed whether Morsy will face any repercussions for choosing not to don the armband. Notably, Morsy was the lone captain out of the Premier League's 19 skippers to avoid wearing the armband during the last round of matches.

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Premier League
Watch the Premier League on Prime Video

Amazon's Prime Video is broadcasting 10 mid-week Premier League matches on December 3-5, plus 10 fixtures on December 26-27.

Each match can be streamed free with an Amazon Prime subscription or by signing up for an Amazon Prime 30-day free trial.

£0

Amazon
Get Amazon Prime here