Earlier on Tuesday, ESPN highlighted that Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi could face a possible sanction from the FA for allegedly breaching Rule A4 of the FA’s equipment and advertising regulations. This rule explicitly prohibits any religious messages or slogans on clothing.
Following a change to the Laws of the Game last summer, it was clarified that all captains must wear a simple armband that complies with Law 4, which addresses slogans, statements, images and advertising.
Ahead of this weekend’s matches, rainbow-colored armbands promoting Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign in support of the LGBTQ+ community have been handed out to all 20 Premier League clubs.
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After the match, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner downplayed Guéhi’s actions in an interview with Amazon Prime Video, saying: “Today, integration and anti-discrimination are paramount, and Marc embodies that. We had a discussion about it; he’s a grown man with his own opinions, which we respect.”
Guéhi, known for his devout Christian faith, chose to inscribe a religious message on an armband designed to support LGBTQ+ rights, a decision some might consider controversial.
A Stonewall spokesperson commented to the BBC: “It has been remarkable to see many football teams at all levels supporting our campaign to create a safer and more inclusive sporting environment. Visible support for inclusion LGBTQ+ on the part of clubs promotes a feeling of safety and welcome for individuals, both on the field and in the community. Ultimately, it is up to each person to choose how to express their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion. in sports.”
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Notably, Ipswich midfielder and practicing Muslim Sam Morsy was the only captain to choose not to wear the armband last weekend, opting for the classic black version during the match against Palace. The FA said the choice of Morsy is a personal matter between the club and the individual and does not constitute a breach of equipment regulations.
