Footballer Marc Guehi Warned For Writing ‘I Love Jesus’ On Rainbow Armband

The FA is prepared to give an official reminder to Crystal Palace and England star Marc Guehi for putting ‘I love Jesus’ on his rainbow-colored captain’s armband.

During Palace’s 1-1 home draw with Newcastle on Saturday, the defender scrawled a three-word statement on his armband.

FA rules permit a few ‘initiative slogans/emblems’, such as Rainbow Laces, but prohibit ‘political, religious, or personal slogans, declarations, or imagery.’

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 Guehi and Crystal Palace will be warned of the FA’s uniform and advertising rules.

Guehi is a devoted Christian who has previously spoken about how his faith continues to play an important 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 pious family, and his father, John, is a church minister.

According to a report on Monday, Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy declined to wear a rainbow armband during his team’s 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest due to religious grounds.

According to The Mirror, the newly promoted side acknowledged that the 33-year-old, a practicing Muslim, declined to participate in the effort because of his beliefs.

Despite this, the club was eager to emphasise its dedication to LGBT+ inclusivity.

In a statement, the spokesperson stated that the club ‘proudly endorses’ the effort.

“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.”