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England’s FA, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the national team criticize online racism targeting black players.
The England Football Association and Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned racist online abuse against players following the team’s penalty shoot-out loss to Italy in the Euro 2020 final .
On Sunday, the sides drew 1-1 after extra time and Italy won the penalty shootout 3-2 with England players Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka all black missing the shots on goal.
“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,” said the statement issued in the early hours of Monday morning.
We issued a statement after a number of @England gamers have been the victims of racist abuse online as a result of the # EURO2020 final: https://t.co/B7gB180OQa
– The FA (@FA) July 12, 2021
“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 affected players while demanding the most severe penalties possible for anyone responsible. “
The England team also released a statement condemning the abuse directed at 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.
Prime Minister Johnson also backed the players, saying this team deserves to be hailed as heroes.
“Those responsible for these appalling abuses should be ashamed of themselves,” he tweeted.
This England team deserves to be hailed as heroes, not racist abuse on social media.
Those responsible for these appalling abuses should be ashamed of themselves.
– Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) July 12, 2021
Police investigation
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 suppress and prevent this hatred,” Khan said in a tweet.
England players have taken a strong stand against racism during the tournament, kneeling ahead of their matches, including in 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 look forward to seeing you back here, ”Arsenal tweeted.
United have said they look forward to welcoming Rashford home, adding: “A kick won’t define you as a player or as a person.”
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