The FA is supportive of initiatives to recognise the work and sacrifice of the NHS and key workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In this respect The FA has produced this guidance to assist clubs as to what may be included on the playing kit and outer clothing to be worn by teams during matches until the end of the 2020/21 season.

The FA’s Kit and Advertising Regulations and IFAB Laws of the Game address what may be included on a team’s playing kit and outer clothing worn in the Technical Area (or equivalent) during a match. The Regulations and Laws apply at all levels of the game. This guidance is based on the Regulations and Laws.

Criteria for use

The following criteria is to be used by a club at all levels of the game when recognising support for the NHS and key workers on playing kit and outer clothing used during the period of a match to the end of season 2020/21. All forms of message, logo or emblem must meet the requirements and spirit of the Regulations and Laws of the Game.

The following is permitted for a single match or series of matches:
• Simple messaging. For example, “Thank You NHS”;
• The use of a recognised motif or emblem;
• A message, logo or emblem (or combination thereof) may be appear as a single area of no more than 100cmsq anywhere on a shirt and outer clothing in addition to the club crest and any sponsorship. Alternatively, such a message, logo or emblem may appear on shirts and outer clothing in the space reserved for the main club sponsor to a maximum total area of 250cmsq. (Note: Affiliated Association or Competition requirements may apply);
• A Competition may require its permission for a message, logo or emblem to be used during the course of a match to be played in its Competition;
• A Competition led initiative for all its member clubs subject to that initiative meeting this Guidance, the Regulations and Laws of the Game.

The following is not permitted:
• The use of hashtags (#)
• Political, religious, personal or offensive messages, slogans or emblems

The FA will apply this guidance, FA Rules and Regulations and the Laws at its sole discretion. 

If further guidance is required, please contact The FA:

The FA
E: Sanctioning@TheFA.com