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England players stand united for Jess Carter

England's players show their support for Jess Carter in a powerful display before the Euro 2025 semi-final.

July 22, 2025 at 07:26 PM

Euro 2025: England players and substitutes stand in support of Jess Carter

England's players united before their Euro 2025 semi-final to support Jess Carter against racism.

England players show support for Jess Carter at Euro 2025

In a powerful gesture, England's players stood together prior to their Euro 2025 semi-final against Italy, following their decision to cease taking the knee. This move comes after Jess Carter, who has experienced online racial abuse during the tournament, expressed her feelings on the matter. Substitutes lined up on the touchline arm-in-arm to show solidarity with Carter, whose squad number is 16. Fans also supported her by singing her song and applauding in the 16th minute. Italy did not join in on the gesture, and when questioned, defender Cecilia Salvai mentioned they were open to making a statement. England manager Sarina Wiegman emphasized that taking the knee is insufficient, stating that they need to explore more impactful ways to confront racism in football. Former England striker Ian Wright expressed his ongoing commitment to taking the knee if he were still playing, but acknowledged the personal nature of the decision. The match outcome determined who would face either Spain or Germany in the final.

Key Takeaways

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England players unite in support of Jess Carter amid racist abuse.

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Substitutes showed solidarity by linking arms on the touchline.

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Carter faced significant online racial abuse during the tournament.

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Italy's team did not participate in the gesture, stirring discussions.

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Manager Wiegman advocates for stronger actions against racism.

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Fans honored Carter in the 16th minute of the match.

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The Lionesses seek impactful ways to tackle racism beyond gestures.

"Taking the knee, that's not enough. We have done that for a while."

Sarina Wiegman explains why England decided to cease the gesture before matches.

"We felt we have to do something else, something different."

Wiegman emphasizes the need for more effective actions against racism.

"I would take the knee if I were still playing."

Ian Wright expresses his personal view on the gesture and its significance.

"Carter wants to play and is available."

Wiegman notes that despite the issues, Carter is ready to contribute to the team.

This moment reflects a significant shift in how athletes engage with social issues. The decision by England's players to stop taking the knee indicates a desire for more actionable forms of protest against racism, rather than continuing a gesture that they feel has lost its impact. Jess Carter's experience underscores the ongoing racial challenges in sports, suggesting that while gestures might seem supportive, they must evolve to effectively address systemic issues. This change signals to fans and players alike that true solidarity involves taking concrete steps toward accountability and change. As this incident unfolds, it may provoke broader conversations on racism in football and sports culture.

Highlights

Taking the knee is not enough. We must act differently.
True solidarity goes beyond gestures; it requires action.
Racism in sports cannot be ignored or brushed aside.
Fans singing in support shows the power of community.

Potential backlash over stance against racism

England's decision to stop taking the knee may provoke backlash from fans and organizations advocating for consistent anti-racism measures in sports. This stance reflects deeper tensions within the football community regarding symbols of protest and their effectiveness.

As the tournament progresses, the focus on meaningful actions against racism will remain vital.

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euros2025 england racism solidarity football sport racism football

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