England called in the police following defender Jess Carter revealed that she was the target of racist abuse during Euro 2025.
The Lionesses, in a statement, said that they would stop the anti-racism gesture of taking a knee before matches as it was "clear we and football need to find another way to tackle racism." Carter, on her side, stated that she was take a step back from social media.
The English Football Association said that it was working with police to ensure those responsible for this hate crime are brought to justice. "From the start of the tournament I have experienced a lot of racial abuse," said Carter.
The 27-year-old went on: "While 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." Her England team-mate, Lotte Wubben-Moy, said that she would also be coming off social media.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: "There is no place for racism in football or anywhere in society.
"I stand with Jess, the Lionesses, and any players who have suffered racism, on and off the pitch." Carter, who made her England debut in 2017 and has 49 caps, was a member of the squad that won Euro 2022.
Having started her career at Birmingham City, she won five Women's Super League titles with Chelsea before leaving for American club Gotham FC last summer. The United States National Women's Soccer League side said that they were "heartbroken and outraged," with the club adding: "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.
"We stand with Jess, and we deeply appreciate the support for her from the Lionesses and England's Football Association." Anti-discrimination charity ‘Kick It Out’ sent its support to Carter and backed her decision to step away from social media.
Kick It Out said: “Those responsible should face the strongest possible consequences." It went on to add: "Responsibility also lies with social media companies".
"We have been working with the government and the regulator,” it said, “but we know that more urgency is needed from everyone involved." European football's governing body Uefa, said: "Abuse and discrimination should never be tolerated, whether in football or society, in person or online."
The Lionesses' next match is against Italy in the Euro 2025 semi-finals tomorrow.
