Boris Johnson and The FA Condemn Racist Attacks Targeting Three England Soccer Players
After England’s soccer team was defeated in the finals of the 2020 UEFA European Championship, three Black players were the target of racist attacks online. Later, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and The Football Association took to social media to publicly condemn the attacks.
On July 11, England and Italy competed in the finals for the UEFA European Championship. The two teams reached penalty kicks and three England players – Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Bukayo Saka – missed their shot, resulting in Italy’s win. That same night, Rashford, Sancho, and Saka became the target of racist abuse online.
We’re disgusted that some of our squad – who have given everything for the shirt this summer – have been subjected to discriminatory abuse online after tonight’s game.
— England (@England) July 12, 2021
We stand with our players ❤️ https://t.co/1Ce48XRHEl
During the social media attacks, many publicly supported the players affected. The Football Association released a message online that states, “The FA strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and is appalled by the online racism that has been aimed at some of our England players on social media.” Along with condemning the “disgusting behavior” of the racist attacks, the association also urged social media companies to gather evidence on the abuse.
This England team deserve to be lauded as heroes, not racially abused on social media.
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) July 12, 2021
Those responsible for this appalling abuse should be ashamed of themselves.
Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, also released a statement, which reads, “This England team deserve to be lauded as heroes, not racially abused on social media. Those responsible for this appalling abuse should be ashamed of themselves.”
I don’t understand why there is still room for racism and discrimination. We will never tire of fighting against any form of discrimination. Instead of being applauded for having the courage to take the penalties, these young men are attacked with racist insults. I am speechless.
— Erling Haaland (@ErlingHaaland) July 12, 2021
According to NY1, the British government is now planning to create laws for online companies to protect their users from abuse. Currently, Twitter and Facebook have taken action against users posting racist abuse towards the three players.
To support Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Bukayo Saka’s careers, follow the official England soccer account for updates about them.
Writer | Find me on Twitter @Fontalvokayla
