Marc Guehi writes ‘Jesus loves you’ on LGBTQ+ armband despite FA warning | Football

Marc Guehi has ignored a warning from the FA by writing a new message on his rainbow armband in Crystal Palace’s clash against Ipswich Town.

Guehi was slapped with an official caution from the Football Association for scribbling ‘I love Jesus’ on his LGBTQ+ armband against Newcastle.

The 24-year-old could now face disciplinary action after defying the FA and writing a second message against Ipswich which reads: ‘Jesus loves you’.

Guehi, a devout Christian, has angered the LGBTQ+ community with his behaviour, with many questioning why he felt the need to deface his armband, while others have defended him over his religious beliefs.

‘Having a pride campaign means absolutely nothing when you do nothing about homophobia when push comes to shove,’ football fan @beckytaylorgill posted on X. ‘Shameful decision by the FA.’

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Palace manager Oliver Glasner, speaking to Amazon Prime after Palace beat Ipswich 1-0, said: ‘I think we should calm it down. Everybody knows Marc, everyone knows he is a great player, he is a great personality.

‘He is a very humble guy. He wore this. It’s LGBT and everyone now is about integration, no discrimination and Marc as well.

‘I think we all have the same opinion. We are in sports and in sports we are always against discrimination and any kind of abuse, and Marc as well.’

The rainbow-coloured armbands feature the branding of Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign (November 29 to December 5) in support of the LGBTQ+ community. They are not considered to be political – in any way – under the current rules.

According to the International Football Association Board (IFAB), ‘initiative slogans/emblems promoting the game of football, respect and integrity’ are permitted.

After Guehi scribbled ‘I love Jesus’ on his armband against Newcastle, the FA reminded Palace and Guehi about their responsibilities that the appearance of a religious message on any item of clothing is prohibited.

Meanwhile, Ipswich captain Sam Morsy, a devout Muslim, has opted to wear a standard armband for the second match running against Palace.

Like Guehi, Morsy does not wish to wear the rainbow-coloured armband due to his religious beliefs.

‘Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone,’ the club said in a statement on Monday.

‘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.’

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