English FA condemns ‘disgusting’ racist abuse against players after Euro 2020 disappointment

The England Football Association condemned the racist attacks unleashed by football fans on social media on Monday morning after the country’s disappointing loss to Italy in the Euro 2020 final.

The attacks largely targeted Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka, all of whom are black. Every player missed a penalty in the crucial shootout that decided the game – and the tournament – for Italy.

“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 affected players while demanding the most severe penalties possible for anyone responsible. “

Addition of the team on Twitter: “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. We are alongside our players.

Many graphic attacks on social media included monkey and banana emojis. London Metropolitan Police said they would investigate the “offensive and racist” posts.

“We are aware of a number of offensive and racist comments on social media directed at footballers after the Euro 2020 final,” he added. the department said on Twitter. “This abuse is completely unacceptable, it will not be tolerated and it will be investigated.”

A mural dedicated to Rashford, who has been an active campaigner to help feed vulnerable British children, was vandalized on Sunday. Rashford has been racially abused before, including when he said he received more than 70 hate messages after Manchester United’s final defeat in the Europa League in May.

“Racist abuse will never be tolerated, neither for the club nor for the country”, Manchester United said on Twitter. “If you see any form of abuse or discrimination, take action and report it. “

Prince William also condemned the attacks, as did British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

“This England team deserves to be hailed as heroes, not racist abuse on social media,” he added. Johnson said on Twitter. “Those responsible for these appalling abuses should be ashamed of themselves.”

England players have protested racism throughout the tournament, kneeling ahead of their matches, including on Sunday. In the first England major tournament final since 1966, Luke Shaw scored two minutes for England, before Leonardo Bonucci equalized for Italy in the second half.

The game remained 1-1 after extra time and Italy won the penalty shootout 3-2.