Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo may face disciplinary action from the Football Association (FA) after revealing a shirt with the religious slogan “I belong to Jesus” during a goal celebration in Sunday’s Premier League title-clinching victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

Gakpo, who scored the third goal in Liverpool’s 5-1 win at Anfield, lifted his jersey to display the message — a move that earned him a yellow card and could now lead to further sanctions under FA and IFAB regulations.

FA Rule on Religious Slogans Could Trigger Sanction for Gakpo

According to Law 4 of the International Football Association Board’s (IFAB) Laws of the Game, players are prohibited from revealing undergarments displaying “political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images.” Violations of this rule can result in disciplinary action from national associations or FIFA.

Gakpo’s celebration drew parallels to Brazilian legend Kaká, who famously displayed the same “I belong to Jesus” slogan after AC Milan’s 2007 Champions League final win over Liverpool.

FA Accused of Inconsistent Enforcement Over Religious Expression

The incident reignites debate around the FA’s enforcement of religious expression. Just months ago, Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi faced repeated reminders from the FA after he wrote “I love Jesus” and “Jesus loves you” on his rainbow armband during a Premier League LGBTQ+ inclusion campaign. In contrast, Ipswich Town’s Muslim captain Sam Morsy faced no sanction for opting out of wearing the rainbow armband altogether.

This inconsistency led to accusations of a “two-tier system” by politicians and commentators, with Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick stating: “Why is a Christian player being treated differently to a Muslim?”

Mixed Reactions from Public Figures and Players

Comedian and Arsenal supporter Matt Lucas commented on X (formerly Twitter), expressing frustration: “If you’re a player and that offends you less than wearing a rainbow-coloured armband for a couple of matches, then maybe you’re part of the problem.”

Meanwhile, Guehi defended his own actions in a BBC interview, calling his message “truthful and inclusive,” adding: “I believe 100% in the words that I wrote. I hope people can understand that my faith is my faith, and I’ll stand by it for the rest of my life.”

What’s Next for Gakpo and Liverpool?

While Gakpo’s yellow card for removing his shirt is standard under FIFA rules, the added religious message may prompt a formal review by the FA. A spokesperson has yet to comment on the potential investigation or disciplinary proceedings.

With Liverpool having secured the Premier League title under new manager Arne Slot, the focus is now not only on their on-pitch triumph but also on how governing bodies handle expressions of faith in football.