Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi chose to adorn his armband with a religious message during a Premier League match celebrating LGBTQ+ inclusion, despite the English Football Association’s rules against the display of religious messages on uniforms. Guehi used a heart sign instead of the word “love” or “loves” in his messages.
The FA contacted Guehi and Palace to remind them of the regulations after the first incident, but will not be taking any formal action. Guehi continued to display his messages in the next match as well. The FA has once again reiterated the kit regulations to Palace.
This act of defiance comes during the Rainbow Laces campaign, which aims to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion in football. Ipswich’s Sam Morsy also chose not to wear the rainbow armband due to his religious beliefs.
Manchester United faced a similar situation when defender Noussair Mazraoui declined to wear a training top in support of the LGBTQ+ community due to his Muslim faith. The club respected his decision and players did not wear the jackets.
Despite these individual choices, clubs like Manchester United remain committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in football. United’s captain Bruno Fernandes did wear the rainbow armband during the match.
