Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi once again wore a rainbow armband bearing the message "Jesus loves you" during a Premier League match against Ipswich Town. This act comes despite a prior warning from England's Football Association (FA) regarding the prohibition of religious messages on kit items.
The rainbow armbands are part of the Premier League's initiative to support LGBTQ+ inclusion through Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign. However, Guehi, a devout Christian, chose to inscribe his personal belief on the armband, which he also did in a previous match against Newcastle United. The FA had reminded both Guehi and Crystal Palace of their responsibilities under Rule A4 of the FA's kit and advertising regulations, which bans religious messaging on clothing.
Guehi's father, a church minister, defended his son's actions, stating, "I do believe in what the Bible says, Jesus loves everyone, and, in my opinion, Marc did not offend anyone with what he wrote."
Meanwhile, Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy, who is Muslim, opted not to wear the rainbow armband due to his religious beliefs. Ipswich Town expressed their support for the Premier League's campaign but respected Morsy's decision, emphasizing their commitment to inclusivity. "We proudly support the Premier League's Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance," the club stated. "At the same time, we respect the decision of our captain Sam Morsy."
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner called for calm amidst the controversy, highlighting the importance of integration and non-discrimination in sports. "Everyone now is about integration, no discrimination and Marc as well," Glasner remarked.
The FA has chosen not to impose any disciplinary action on Guehi, considering the matter resolved with a reminder of the rules.
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