England defender Jess Carter has been subjected to racist abuse online during the 2025 European Championships, prompting the Lionesses to stop taking the knee before games.
The 27-year-old, who has made 49 appearances for the national team, announced in a statement on Sunday that she is “stepping away from social media” after facing ongoing abuse since the tournament began in Switzerland.
In a show of solidarity with their teammate, the England squad announced they will continue to stand before matches, stating that it is “clear we and football must find a different approach to combating racism.”
The Football Association also confirmed it is collaborating with UK police and relevant social media companies to address the situation.
‘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.’
Jess Carter has featured in the starting lineup for all four of England’s matches at Euro 2025, playing a key role in guiding the team to the semi-finals, where they will face Italy on Tuesday.
In a joint statement, the Lionesses confirmed their decision to stop taking the knee, calling for those responsible for the abuse to be held accountable.
‘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.
We stand with Jess, and all #Lionesses players past and present who have suffered racism.
— Lionesses (@Lionesses) July 20, 2025
A message from the squad: pic.twitter.com/goaSHono5s
‘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.’
