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Premier League clubs may stop taking the knee

Premier League clubs are considering ending the pre-match gesture amid divisive views on its effectiveness.

July 22, 2025 at 11:07 AM

Premier League could follow Lionesses and stop taking the knee before matches

A potential shift in Premier League's approach to the knee gesture highlights divisions among anti-racism advocates.

Premier League clubs may end knee gesture before matches

Premiere League clubs are considering ending the practice of taking the knee before matches next season. This comes as the England Lionesses have decided to stop the gesture, citing internal divisions in the anti-racism movement. The Premier League plans to consult club captains at the annual pre-season meeting before making any decisions. The initiative began in 2020 after the Black Lives Matter movement gained traction following the death of George Floyd. Although Kick It Out and the Professional Footballers' Association have expressed mixed feelings about the gesture's efficacy, the international anti-discrimination group Fare still views it as an important symbol.

Key Takeaways

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Potential shift away from taking the knee in Premier League matches.

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Lionesses' decision adds pressure on clubs to reconsider their stance.

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Mixed views among anti-racism groups complicate the conversation.

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Knee gesture started in 2020 after George Floyd's death.

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Premier League aims for a consultation with club captains before decisions.

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Representation of black players in the league raises the stakes of the discussion.

"The taking of the knee is a powerful anti-racist act and England Lionesses have shown leadership across Europe in taking it for so long."

Fare's executive director highlights the importance of the gesture amid the debate.

"Powerful actions are needed right now to deal with issues that are being played out as we speak."

This quote emphasizes the urgency for effective action against racism in football.

The potential end of taking the knee in the Premier League underscores a growing divide among anti-racism advocates. While some groups argue it has lost its impact, others maintain it as a critical gesture in a sport with significant representation of black players. The discussion reflects broader societal tensions regarding the effectiveness of symbolic acts versus tangible change. The outcome of this consultation could reshape how the Premier League addresses racial issues in the future.

Highlights

The end of taking the knee could signal a shift in how the Premier League fights racism.
Symbolic gestures have divided anti-racism advocates within English football.
History shows that gestures like taking the knee can both unite and divide.
Strong leadership is needed to confront ongoing racial issues in sports.