The FA’s strict stance on political messages: A review of Pep Guardiola’s yellow ribbon case

On 23 February 2018, The Football Association (The FA) confirmed that Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, had been charged with misconduct1 after he wore a yellow ribbon during an FA Cup fixture against Wigan. According to The FA, the yellow ribbon constituted a political message and was in breach of The FA’s Kit and Advertising Regulations.2

This article reviews the background to the case and decision, specifically looking at:

• The relevant regulations

• The significance of the yellow ribbon

• The factual background

• Guardiola’s response

• The decision of The FA’s Regulatory Commission

• Concluding thoughts