Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo is set to be cautioned by the Football Association (FA) following his goal celebration during the club’s 5-1 victory over Tottenham, which secured the Premier League title. The Dutch international lifted his shirt to reveal a vest with the inscription “I belong to Jesus” after scoring Liverpool’s third goal at Anfield.
Gakpo’s celebration drew attention not just for its emotional impact but also for breaching FA and International Football Association Board (IFAB) rules. These regulations prohibit players from revealing undergarments that display political, religious, or personal messages.
Although Gakpo received a yellow card for removing his shirt during the match, the FA will now issue a formal reminder of the rules, which apply to all players across competitions. Similar reminders have been issued in the past, including to Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, who wore a “Jesus loves you” armband last December without facing further punishment.
The IFAB law clearly states that no equipment, including vests or armbands, should display slogans or messages of a political or religious nature. Offending players or clubs can be sanctioned by the competition organiser, the national FA, or FIFA.
Gakpo’s vest echoed a famous moment by former AC Milan midfielder Kaka, who wore a similar “I belong to Jesus” vest after winning the 2007 Champions League final — also against Liverpool.
While the FA is expected to stop at a warning, the incident adds to the ongoing debate around religious expression and personal beliefs in football, particularly during high-profile matches.
