Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo has been reminded of the Football Association’s (FA) rules following his goal celebration during the club’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. The match, which saw Liverpool clinch the Premier League title, featured Gakpo scoring the third goal, a pivotal moment before half-time. The Dutch international capitalized on a defensive error, skillfully navigating through the opposition to score. However, it was his post-goal celebration that caught attention, as he revealed a vest with religious connotations, reminiscent of Brazilian legend Kaka’s 2007 Champions League celebration.
The FA’s regulations state: “Equipment must not have any political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images. Players must not reveal undergarments that show political, religious, personal slogans, statements or images, or advertising other than the manufacturer’s logo.”
The FA continued: “Players can celebrate when a goal is scored, but the celebration must not be excessive; choreographed celebrations are not encouraged and must not cause excessive time-wasting. Leaving the field of play to celebrate a goal is not a cautionable offence but players should return as soon as possible.”
The rules also specify: “A player must be cautioned, even if the goal is disallowed, for climbing onto a perimeter fence and/or approaching the spectators in a manner which causes safety and/or security issues, gesturing or acting in a provocative, derisory or inflammatory way, covering the head or face with a mask or other similar item, removing the shirt or covering the head with the shirt.”
Following the match, the FA reached out to both Gakpo and Liverpool to remind them of the regulations regarding kit and advertising. While no formal charges were brought against Gakpo, he was shown a yellow card by referee Tom Bramall for removing his shirt during the celebration. This incident highlights the importance of adhering to FA guidelines, even during moments of triumph.
Liverpool’s victory marked their 20th league title and the first to be celebrated in front of fans since 1990. The season has been one of remarkable achievements for the Reds, with memorable performances and iconic moments throughout the campaign. As the club reflects on this historic win, the incident serves as a reminder of the balance between personal expression and professional conduct on the field.
