FA condemns racist abuse of England players after Euro 2020 final
July 12, 2021: The Football Association of England and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson have condemned the online racist abuse of players following Italy’s loss of a team’s penalty shootout in the Euro 2020 final. On Sunday, the sides drew 1-1 after extra time and Italy won the shootout 3-2, with England’s Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka, who are all black, missing the Spot Kicks.
“The FA strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and is appalled by the online racism that has been aimed at some of our England players on social media,” the statement posted in the early hours of Monday morning said.
We've issued a statement after a number of @England players were subjected to racist abuse online following the #EURO2020 final: https://t.co/B7gB180OQa
— The FA (@FA) July 12, 2021
“We could not be clearer that anyone behind such disgusting behaviour is not welcome in following the team. We will do all we can to support the players affected while urging the toughest punishments possible for anyone responsible.”
The England team also issued a statement condemning the abuse of their players on social media. The team tweeted, “We are saddened that some of our squads – who have given their all for the shirt this summer – have been subjected to online discrimination after tonight’s game.”
Prime Minister Johnson also stood behind the players, saying the team deserved praise as a hero. He tweeted, “Those responsible for this slander should be ashamed of themselves.”
This England team deserve to be lauded as heroes, not racially abused on social media.
Those responsible for this appalling abuse should be ashamed of themselves.
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) July 12, 2021
British police said they would investigate the posts. The Metropolitan Police tweeted, “We are aware of a number of offensive and racist social media comments directed at footballers since the Euro 2020 final.” “This abuse is totally unacceptable, it will not be tolerated and it will be investigated.” London Mayor Sadiq Khan has called on social media companies to remove such content from their platforms. “We must be held accountable for those responsible for hateful online abuse – and social media companies need to take immediate action to eradicate and prevent this hatred,” Khan said in a tweet.
England’s players have taken a strong stand against racism in the tournament by kneeling before their games, including Sunday’s final. Arsenal sent a message of support to their winger Saka, while Rashford was supported by his club Manchester United. “Football can be so cruel. But for your personality; your character; your bravery; we will always be proud of you. And we can’t wait for you to come back with us. United said they look forward to welcoming Rashford home, adding: “A kick will not define you as a player or as a person.”
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