England to stop taking knee after racist abuse of Carter

Police called in as player subjected to ‘vile’ online messages

- JAMIE BRAIDWOOD

England’s players have said they will not take the knee before tomorrow’s Euro 2025 semifinal against Italy after defender Jess Carter was sent “vile” and “abhorrent” racist abuse online following their quarterfinal win over Sweden.

The Football Association (FA) confirmed it is working with UK police and the relevant social media platforms, while Carter said she would be “taking a step back” from social media as a result of the abuse she has received throughout the tournament.

In a statement, the Lionesses said “we need to find another way to tackle racism” and confirmed they will remain standing before kickoff tomorrow. Carter’s England teammate Lotte Wubben-Moy also said she would be stepping away from social media in protest.

Carter played the first 70 minutes of England’s quarterfinal win over Sweden on Thursday but struggled during the first half as the Lionesses conceded two goals. The Lionesses launched their comeback after Sarina Wiegman made four changes during the second half, with Carter replaced by Esme Morgan and forwards Chloe Kelly, Beth Mead and Michelle Agyemang all having an impact in attack.

“From the start of the tournament, I have experienced a lot of racial abuse,” Carter said in a statement released by the FA. “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. As a result of this, I will be taking a step back from social media and leaving it to a team to deal with.

“As ever, I am grateful for all of the support from the genuine fans but I am taking this measure to protect myself in a bid to keep my focus on helping the team any way I can.