England international Marc Guehi will not receive a formal charge from the Football Association (FA) for writing “I love Jesus” on his rainbow-coloured armband against Newcastle on Saturday – according to reports.
The rainbow-coloured armbands are handed to each of the 20 captains of Premier League clubs as part of the English top-flight’s Rainbow Laces campaign, which aims to support LGBTQ+ inclusion.
The Crystal Palace skipper wore the armband during his side’s 1-1 draw with Newcastle at Selhurst Park last Saturday, with “I love Jesus” written at the top of the band in black marker.
The FA’s kit and advertising rules do not allow players to wear items of clothing that promote political or religious messaging, but the Palace captain has avoided an FA charge while it is expected the governing body will remind Guehi on its rules regarding “religious” messaging.
Rule A4 of the FA’s kit and advertising rules states:Â “The appearance on, or incorporation in, any item of clothing, football boots or other equipment of any distasteful, threatening, abusive, indecent, insulting, discriminatory or otherwise ethically or morally offensive message, or any political or religious message, is prohibited”.
Guehi’s father is a church minister, and the defender has previously told The Athletic that he attends church with his family.
Guehi again had a religious slogan on his armband during Crystal Palace’s match against Ipswich Town on Tuesday night – reading “Jesus loves you” – with “loves” depicted by a heart.
Elsewhere in the Premier League, Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy opted not to wear the rainbow armband during Ipswich’s defeat against Nottingham Forest.
The Premier League newcomers issued a statement in which they said they “respect” Morsy’s decision, adding that he opted out of wearing the armband due to “religious beliefs”.
Ipswich, who have previously contributed to LGBTQ+ initiatives, reiterated their commitment to “being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone”.
A spokesperson for Stonewall said: “It has been incredible to see so many football teams at all levels support our campaign to make sport safer and more inclusive for all.
“When we see clubs show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion, it helps people feel safe and welcome both on and off the pitch.
“It is up to individuals to choose if and how they show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport.”