England Women will stop taking the knee after defender Jess Carter received racist abuse online during Euro 2025.
In a statement, the Lionesses said it was “clear we and football need to find another way to tackle racism”, with Carter saying she had stepped away from social media following the quarter-final against Sweden.
“From the start of the tournament I have experienced a lot of racial abuse,” Carter said on Sunday.
“Whilst I feel every fan is entitled to their opinion on performance and result I don’t agree or think it’s ok to target someone’s appearance or race.”
The Lionesses added: “Representing our country is the greatest honour. It is not right that while we are doing that, some of us are treated differently simply because of the colour of our skin.
“Until now, we have chosen to take the knee before matches. It is clear we and football need to find another way to tackle racism. We have agreed as a squad to remain standing before kick-off on Tuesday. We hope the game can come together to see what more can be done… Those behind this online poison must be held accountable.”
FA CEO Mark Bullingham condemned the “disgusting racism” targeting Carter.
“As soon as we were made aware of the racist abuse Jess received, we immediately contacted UK police,” Bullingham confirmed.
“They are in touch with the relevant social media platform, and we are working with police to ensure those responsible for this hate crime are brought to justice.
“Regrettably, this is not the first time this has happened to an England player, so we had measures in place to allow us to respond quickly and where possible provide information to support any potential police action.
“We will continue to discuss with the relevant authorities and social media companies about what more can and should be done to prevent this abhorrent abuse.”
England manager Sarina Wiegman said she stands with “all Lionesses players past and present who have suffered racism.”
Defender Lotte Wubben-Moy said the issue “goes beyond sport”.
“Another tournament goes by where we see the same disgusting racist abuse. It’s unacceptable for any person to be subject to this or any kind of abuse,” Wubben-Moy said.
“But what is being done about it? In society? On the very platforms we post on?
“I will not continue to feed the very platforms that enable this abuse with no consequences.”
Carter’s club, the US-based Gotham FC, said they were “heartbroken and outraged”.
“Jess is not only a world-class football player — she is a role model, a leader and a valued part of our Gotham FC family,” a club spokesperson said.
“At Gotham, we believe in a culture of mutual respect and remain committed to building a game — and a community — where everyone feels safe, respected and celebrated.
“There is no place for racism in our sport. We stand with Jess, and we deeply appreciate the support for Jess from the Lionesses and England’s Football Association as they compete at the Uefa Women’s Championship.”
Uefa also said: “We stand with Jess. Abuse and discrimination should never be tolerated, whether in football or society, in person or online.”
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