Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi has learned his fate for daringly writing “I love Jesus” on the LGBTQ rainbow armband the league asked him to wear.
Guehi debuted his altered armband during last Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Newcastle. The LGBTQ agenda armbands are required for team captains. However, Football Association authorities immediately deemed the armband a violation of its rules against religious displays, according to GBN.
ESPN has learned that Crystal Palace and England centre-back Marc Guéhi could face an English Football Association (FA) charge after writing "I love Jesus" on his rainbow-coloured captain's armband for Saturday's 1-1 draw at home to Newcastle United. pic.twitter.com/OQhDpK8P7Y
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) December 3, 2024
But now the FA has decided to take a pass on punishing the player even though his message violated the rules against displaying “political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images” on equipment.
The league’s Rainbow Laces campaign to promote LGBTQ inclusion runs until December 5. The campaign is in cooperation with the gay charity Stonewall.
“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,” a charity spokesperson said.
The armband was also a sticking point for Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy. Morsy opted not to wear it at all during team’s game against Nottingham Forest. The FA already noted that it will take no action in that case.
Ipswich Town released a statement supporting Morsy, a practicing Muslim, but also hastened to point out that they “welcome everybody.”
Still, Rainbow Tractors, a club fan group, expressed disappointment that Morsy would not wear the armband.
“When we see clubs show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion, it helps people feel safe and welcome both on and off the pitch,” the group said.
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