On Tuesday, the 24-year-old donned an armband that read “Jesus loves you” during Palace’s 1-0 victory over Ipswich, but British media reported on Wednesday that the FA would not take any action. Both the club and the England defender, who has openly discussed his faith, received another reminder about the regulations that prohibit religious messages on kits.
Captains have been wearing rainbow armbands in the last two rounds of Premier League matches as part of the Rainbow Laces campaign, which aims to promote LGBTQ inclusion in sports. This initiative, run by the Premier League in collaboration with the charity Stonewall, concludes with the Premier League matches on Thursday.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner called for “calm” regarding the situation following his team’s win at Portman Road. “Everyone now is about integration, no discrimination, and Marc as well,” he stated. “He has his opinion, and we accept and respect every opinion.”
The FA did not intervene in the case of Ipswich captain Sam Morsy, who opted to wear a standard captain’s armband due to his religious beliefs. Although Guehi has not faced any penalties, his father John, a church minister, criticized the FA for issuing a reminder. “Did he offend anyone? I don’t think so. I believe in what the Bible says, ‘Jesus loves everyone,’ and in my opinion, Marc did not offend anyone with what he wrote,” he expressed to the Daily Mail.
Marc accepted the situation and appropriately chose to wear it, yet he is facing criticism from others. The Football Association permits the crowd to sing ‘God Save The King’ during England matches, which includes references to God and religion. Additionally, they allow the religious hymn ‘Abide With Me’ to be performed at the FA Cup final, yet they criticize my son for voicing his beliefs. This inconsistency is perplexing. What has he done that is wrong?
A representative from Stonewall commented: “It has been remarkable to witness the support from numerous football teams across all levels for our initiative aimed at making sports safer and more inclusive for everyone. When clubs demonstrate their commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion, it fosters a sense of safety and belonging both on and off the field. Ultimately, it is up to individuals to decide how they wish to express their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports.”