Italy shows solidarity with England after player’s racist abuse as the two teams unite off the pitch despite being rivals in the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 semi-final. Italy’s head coach Andrea Soncin declared his team’s “maximum solidarity” with England defender Jess Carter after she was subjected to racist abuse on social media during the tournament, leading Carter to step away from her accounts for the rest of the competition.
ICYMI: Euro 2025 semi-final preview: The stage is set for thrilling matches
Standing Up Against Racism Together
Soncin emphasised that while Italy prepares for their first European Championship semi-final in 28 years against defending champions England, they have a “huge responsibility” to take a stand against the abuse Carter faced. He stated that violence and racism should never be accepted and highlighted the duty of players and coaches to send positive and educational messages to children who will grow into the next generation.
A Cultural Fight Beyond Football
Calling it a “cultural campaign” and a “cultural battle,” Soncin explained that football has the power to influence society and that teams must work together to fight racism. The England team announced they will not be taking the knee before their semi-final, expressing the need to find new ways to tackle racism, with players like Lucy Bronze and Georgia Stanway noting that the gesture has lost some impact over time.
Italy’s Support for Jess Carter
Soncin mentioned that while he does not know if taking the knee alone is enough, Italy is ready to support any campaign against racism and violence. He planned to discuss with his players how they could express their support for Carter during the semi-final, adding that he would respect any gesture the players decide to make.
Players Voice Their Solidarity
Italy and Juventus defender Cecilia Salvai shared that the team’s captains are discussing ways to show their support, emphasising that they are open to taking action to send a strong message against racism. She noted that when they step onto the pitch, they will not be opponents in the fight against abuse and hoped Carter could play the semi-final at her best, encouraging her to detach from the hurtful episode and focus on the game.
Focused on Football but United in Purpose
England’s head coach Sarina Wiegman confirmed that Carter is ready to perform in the semi-final despite the situation. Salvai reinforced that Italy stands in solidarity with Carter, underlining that many players have been victims of similar abuse and that the Italian team’s support for her is unwavering as they all continue to fight racism within and beyond football.
