England defender Jess Carter says she has been subject to racial abuse online at the Women’s European Championship.
Carter came in for a lot of criticism for her performance during England’s opening loss to France.
And some of that has crossed the line even as the 27-year-old and the Lionesses have reached the semifinals at Euro 2025.
“From the start of the tournament I have experienced a lot of racial abuse,” Carter wrote in an emotional post on Instagram on Sunday. “Whilst I feel every fan is entitled to their opinion on performance and result I don’t agree or think it’s ok to target someone’s appearance or race.”
Carter, who has made 49 appearances for England and plays for Gotham FC, says she will be taking a step back from social media.
“As ever I am grateful for all of the support from the genuine fans but I am taking this measure to protect myself in a bid to keep my focus on helping the team anyway I can,” she added.
The Football Association has contacted police back in the United Kingdom.
“Our priority is Jess and giving her all the support she needs,” FA CEO Mark Bullingham said. “We strongly condemn those responsible for this disgusting racism.
“As soon as we were made aware of the racist abuse Jess received, we immediately contacted UK police. They are in touch with the relevant social media platform, and we are working with police to ensure those responsible for this hate crime are brought to justice.”
England plays Italy in the semifinals on Tuesday in Geneva, after a dramatic comeback against Sweden last week saw the Lionesses win a chaotic penalty shootout.
