England have condemned the racist abuse directed at defender Jess Carter during the European Championship in Switzerland. The 27-year-old revealed she had been subjected to racial slurs on social media after England’s opening defeat to France, prompting her to step back from online platforms. “I don’t agree or think it’s OK to target someone’s appearance or race,” Carter wrote on Instagram.
The Lionesses issued a collective statement expressing solidarity with Carter and announcing they will no longer take a knee before matches. “It is not right that while we are representing our country, some of us are treated differently because of the colour of our skin,” they said. “We have agreed as a squad to remain standing before kick-off on Tuesday.”
Defender Lotte Wubben-Moy also announced she is leaving social media, stating: “Another tournament goes by where we see the same disgusting racist abuse. I will not continue to feed the very platform that enables abuse with no consequence.”
Lucy Bronze explained the team’s decision to stop kneeling: “It was driven by the group. We feel as a collective, is the message as strong as it used to be? Clearly not if these things are still happening. This is a small step trying to create another change.”
The Football Association is working with UK police to identify those responsible. FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said: “We had measures in place to respond quickly. We will continue to discuss with authorities and social media companies what more can be done.” Kick It Out, the Prime Minister, Uefa, and Carter’s club Gotham FC all voiced support.
