Lionesses defender Jess Carter has released a statement condemning the racial abuse she has received throughout Euro 2025.
The England defender took to social media on Sunday afternoon, speaking out on the awful abuse she has received from those online throughout England’s Euro 2025 campaign.
“From the start of the tournament I have experienced a lot of racial abuse,” said Carter. “Whilst I feel every fan is entitled to their own 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 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 the 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 focussing on putting all of my energy into helping the team.”
England also took to social media to release a statement in support of Carter.
“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. 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.”
Everyone at The Halfway Line condemns the disgusting racism that Carter is being subjected to, and stand with her and anyone else who has been victim to racial abuse during this time, and always.
