Sports
Crystal Palace Captain Guehi Defies FA Rules With ‘Jesus I Love You’ Armband
Marc Guehi, the Ivorian-born England international, made a personal statement during Crystal Palace’s match against Ipswich Town on December 3, by writing “Jesus loves you” on his rainbow captain’s armband.
This was the second time in under a week that Guehi made such a gesture, continuing his support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports as part of the Premier League’s participation in Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign.
The Football Association (FA) had previously reminded Guehi and his club of the regulations that prohibit religious messages on sports kits. This followed his display of the message “I love Jesus” on his armband during a match against Newcastle United on November 30. In response, the FA emphasized its guidelines on religious messaging in sports.
Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy, meanwhile, chose not to wear a rainbow armband, citing his personal religious beliefs, which highlights the differing views players have when expressing support for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion.
Crystal Palace’s manager, Oliver Glasner, discussed the significance of unity and understanding within the sport after their victory at Portman Road. He noted, “Everyone is about integration and no discrimination, and Marc feels the same way,” emphasizing the importance of respect for individual opinions. Glasner also expressed confidence in Guehi’s ability to engage in these discussions maturely, while upholding the campaign’s values of tolerance and inclusivity.
Guehi’s actions could have consequences with the FA, as their Rule A4 prohibits religious messages on clothing and equipment. The Rainbow Laces campaign, which promotes LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports, runs annually from November 29 to December 5.
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