England star Jess Carter has received racist abuse online throughout the 2025 European Championships with the Lionesses deciding they will no longer take the knee before matches.
The 27-year-old, who has been capped 49 times for her country, released a statement on Sunday revealing she is ‘taking a step back from social media’ after being targeted from the start of the competition in Switzerland.
In a statement in support of their teammate, England have confirmed they will also remain standing before games, insisting it is ‘clear we and football need to find another way to tackle racism’.
The Football Association has also confirmed they are working with UK police and the relevant social media platforms.
‘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 anyway I can.
‘Hopefully speaking out will make the people writing this abuse think twice so that others won’t have to deal with it. We have made some historic changes with this Lionesses squad that I am so proud to be a part of and my hope is that by speaking out about this it will make another positive change for all.
‘I’m now looking forward and focusing on putting all of my energy into helping my team.’
Carter has started all four matches at Euro 2025, helping England reach the semi-finals of the competition where they take on Italy on Tuesday.
A separate message from the entire Lionesses squad confirmed they will no longer be taking the knee, demanding those responsible be held accountable for their actions.
‘We stand with Jess and all Lionesses players past and present who have suffered racism. No one should have to endure such vile abuse, be that in football or any walk of life.
‘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. For now, we will return our total focus to an important semi-final.
‘In the meantime, we know the FA are working with UK police and the appropriate bodies. Those behind this online poison must be held accountable.’