Marc Guehi: Crystal Palace captain writes rainbow captain’s armband despite FA reminder

Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi wrote “Jesus loves you” on his rainbow captain’s armband for Tuesday’s game at Ipswich Town, despite the Football Association reminding him that religious messages are banned on the kit.

The rainbow armbands will be worn as Premier League clubs show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport by taking part in charity Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign.

The Football Association told Guehi and his club that religious messages would be banned from their kit after the 24-year-old’s rainbow armband read “I love Jesus” during Palace’s draw with Newcastle United on Saturday.

Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy stopped wearing the rainbow armband on Tuesday after his club said he decided against it at the weekend due to his “religious beliefs”.

Guehi’s actions on Saturday risk a formal FA charge.

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”.

The campaign started on November 29th and runs until December 5th.

A Stonewall spokesman said on Tuesday: “It’s been 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 they show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport.”