England's Lionesses to Stand Instead of Taking the Knee Against Racism

England manager Sarina Wiegman stated that the team decided to stop taking the knee before matches because they believe the impact of the anti-racism gesture is insufficient.

The Lionesses will not take the knee before their Euro 2025 semi-final against Italy after defender Jess Carter revealed she faced racist abuse on social media during the tournament.

England's players announced on Sunday that they would cease taking the knee, emphasizing the need to find alternative ways to combat racism.

Wiegman expressed to BBC Sport that taking the knee is not enough and they felt the necessity to take a different approach in response to racism.

England midfielder Georgia Stanway mentioned that the team will stand at kick-off instead of kneeling, aiming to spark conversations and highlight the inadequacy of current actions against racism.

Police are investigating the abuse directed at Carter, and Fare, the international anti-discrimination body in football, questioned England's decision to halt the gesture.

Stanway commended Carter for speaking out against the abuse and emphasized the team's support for her.

Italy expressed solidarity with England, with defender Cecilia Salvai indicating their willingness to discuss potential gestures for the match.

According to the source: BBC.