FA reminds Marc Guehi and Crystal Palace of religious messages

The Football Association reminds Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi and the Selhurst Park club that religious messages are banned on their equipment.

England defender Guehi’s rainbow captain’s armband for Palace’s draw with Newcastle United on Saturday read “I love Jesus.”

The armbands will be worn by Premier League clubs who show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport by taking part in charity Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign between November 29th and December 5th.

Guehi’s actions carry the risk of a formal charge from the FA, although sources at the organization have stated that this will not be the case on this occasion.

Rule A4 of the FA’s Equipment and Advertising Regulations prohibits “appearing or incorporating in any article of clothing, football boots or other equipment containing a religious message”.

Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy did not wear a rainbow armband during Saturday’s Premier League defeat at Nottingham Forest, which his club said was due to his “religious beliefs”.

The Portman Road club host Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Tuesday.

Ipswich reiterated their commitment to being “a fully inclusive club that welcomes all”, but added that they respect midfielder Morsy’s decision.

Rainbow Tractors, an Ipswich-based LGBTQ+ support group, said it was “disappointed” that Morsy had chosen not to wear the armband.

A Stonewall spokesman said: “It was incredible to see so many football teams at all levels supporting our campaign to make the sport safer and more inclusive for everyone.”

“When we see clubs showing their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion, it helps people feel safe and welcome on and off the pitch.”

“It is up to each individual to decide whether and how to express their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport.”