The Manchester City manager has accepted that his wearing of a yellow ribbon on the touchline in recent months is a breach of the governing body’s kit and advertising regulations.
However, Press Association Sport understands that Guardiola’s response is one of observing – rather than respecting – the rules of the country he is working in and has not apologised.
The 47-year-old has been wearing the ribbon in support of political leaders jailed following the Catalonia independence referendum last October, which was declared illegal by Spain.
The Catalan-born City boss, a former Barcelona manager and captain, has argued that the symbol is not political but he will now stop wearing it on the touchline.
Guardiola will make a written submission for a disciplinary hearing, a date for which is yet to be arranged.
An FA statement read: “Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted an FA charge for wearing a political message, specifically a yellow ribbon, in breach of the FA’s kit and advertising regulations. A paper hearing has been requested, with a date to be set in due course.”
Guardiola, who could face a fine, had until 18:00 on Monday (22:00 UAE) to respond to the charge but actually wrote back to the governing body on Saturday.
He ignored two warnings from the FA over the matter before being charged after City’s surprise FA Cup defeat at Wigan a fortnight ago.
The regulations specifically cover the technical area during matches, meaning Guardiola is free to wear the ribbon for pre- and post-match media duties.
Since the charge was issued Guardiola has either covered up the ribbon during games or not worn it.
The yellow emblem worn by Guardiola during Sunday’s Premier League win over Chelsea was the daffodil of the Marie Curie cancer charity.
The FA’s stance on the matter differs from European governing body UEFA, who allow the ribbon to be worn. City also believe the symbol is not generally considered offensive.
Provided by Press Association Sport
