Jess Carter’s Shocking Racist Abuse Sparks Police Inquiry
England defender Jess Carter has revealed horrific racist abuse during the Euro 2025 tournament, prompting police involvement and reigniting the conversation about discrimination in football. The 27-year-old Lioness, a key player in England’s Euro 2022 triumph, announced she is stepping back from social media due to relentless attacks.
The Football Association and Police Take Action
The FA confirmed it is collaborating with authorities to identify and prosecute those responsible for the hateful messages. Carter, who has 49 international caps, spoke out about the abuse, emphasizing that while criticism of performance is part of the game, racial attacks cross an unacceptable line.
> From the start of the tournament, I have experienced a lot of racial abuse, Carter said. While 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.
Her England teammate Lotte Wubben-Moy also announced her departure from social media in solidarity, as the Lionesses rally around Carter.
Widespread Condemnation from Football and Government
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the abuse, stating:
> There is no place for racism in football or anywhere in society. I stand with Jess, the Lionesses, and any players who have suffered racism, on and off the pitch.
Carter’s current club, Gotham FC, expressed outrage, calling her a world-class player, role model, and valued part of our family. Meanwhile, anti-discrimination organization Kick It Out urged stronger action from social media companies, stressing that abusers must face the strongest possible consequences.
A Persistent Problem in Women’s Football
The abuse Carter has faced is not an isolated incident. During the 2023 Women’s World Cup, Lauren James was subjected to racist attacks after her red card against Nigeria. Chelsea, James’ club, publicly denounced further abuse she received months later following a WSL match.
Carter herself has faced scrutiny throughout Euro 2025, with England’s defensive unit under pressure after inconsistent performances. Following a difficult game against Sweden, racist remarks flooded her social media—an issue that continues to plague women’s football despite the sport’s growing popularity.
Will Carter Play in the Euro 2025 Semi-Final?
England’s next match—a Euro 2025 semi-final against Italy—raises questions about Carter’s inclusion. Manager Sarina Wiegman must weigh whether to shield the defender from further abuse or trust her on the pitch. Esme Morgan, who impressed against Sweden, could potentially start in her place.
The Lionesses have historically stood together against discrimination, and this latest incident has reinforced their determination to fight racism. However, the decision to discontinue taking the knee before matches—citing the need for a more effective way to tackle racism—has sparked debate about football’s next steps in combating hate.
A Call for Change
UEFA stated that abuse and discrimination should never be tolerated, while Kick It Out emphasized the need for greater urgency from regulators and social media platforms. As Jess Carter bravely speaks out, the football world faces a reckoning: without meaningful action, the cycle of abuse will continue.
For now, Carter’s resilience and the unwavering support of her teammates send a powerful message—but the fight against racism in football is far from over.
