Footballer Marc Guehi faces FA charge for writing ‘I love Jesus’ on rainbow armband for Premier League LGBT awareness game

Crystal Palace and England star Marc Guehi is set to be issued a formal reminder by the FA after writing ‘I love Jesus’ on his rainbow-coloured captain’s armband.

The defender wrote a three-word statement on his armband during Palace’s 1-1 draw at home against Newcastle on Saturday afternoon.

FA rules allow a number of ‘initiative slogans/emblems’, such as Rainbow Laces, but forbid ‘political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images.’

Another law states that captains ‘must wear an armband which is simple and conforms to the requirements of Law 4 relating to slogans, statements, images and advertising.’ 

Mail Sport understands that Guehi and Crystal Palace will be reminded of the FA’s kit and advertising regulations. 

Guehi is a devout Christian and previously spoke on how his faith still plays a major role in his football career. 

Speaking to The Athletic, he said: ‘I’ve grown up loving God and when I have had the chance I still go to church with my family, and my faith is definitely a big part of my life.

‘Faith is everything that I’m involved with, really; even in football, where I’m trying to be a role model and show God’s graciousness and God’s glory through my life.’

Guehi comes from a religious household, with his father, John, being a church minister. 

On Monday, a report claimed that Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy refused to wear a rainbow armband during his side’s 1-0 defeat by Nottingham Forest for religious reasons.

According to The Mirror, the newly-promoted side confirmed that the 33-year-old, who is a practicing Muslim, refused to partake in the initiative due to his faith. The club were nevertheless keen to stress their commitment to LGBT+ inclusion.

In a statement, a spokesperson insisted that the club ‘proudly supports’ the campaign.

‘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 said.

‘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.

‘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.

‘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.’