England FA condemns racist abuse targeting Rashford, Saka and Sancho after Euro shootout loss

EnglandThe Football Association issued a statement in the early hours of Monday morning condemning racist online abuse against players after the team lost on penalties to Italy in the final of Euro 2020 on Sunday.

The teams drew 1-1 after extra time and Italy won the shootout 3-2, with English players Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka, who are all Black, missing shots on goal.

– Olley: Demons strike the head again for England
– Euro 2020 on ESPN: Latest News, Features, Video
– Euro 2020 on ESPN: Stream live matches and reruns (US only)

“The FA strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and is appalled by the online racism which targets some of our English players on social networks,” the statement said.

“We couldn’t be clearer that anyone behind such disgusting behavior is unwelcome to follow the team. We will do our utmost to support the players concerned while demanding the harshest penalties possible for any responsible person. “

The England team also released a statement condemning the abuse of its players on social media.

“We are disgusted that some of our team – who gave their all for the shirt this summer – suffered discriminatory abuse online after tonight’s game,” the team tweeted.

We are disgusted that some of our squad – who gave their all for the shirt this summer – suffered discriminatory abuse online after tonight’s game.

We stand in solidarity with our players ❤️ https://t.co/1Ce48XRHEL

– England (@England) July 12, 2021

British police said they would investigate the messages.

“We are aware of a number of offensive and racist comments on social media directed at footballers after the # Euro2020 final,” Metropolitan Police tweeted.

“This abuse is completely unacceptable, it will not be tolerated and it will be investigated.”

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has called on social media companies to remove this content from their platforms.

“Those responsible for the disgusting online abuse we’ve seen must be held accountable – and social media companies must act immediately to eliminate and prevent this hatred,” Khan said in a tweet.