Outcry in England over racist abuse after Euro 2020 defeat

London, Jul 12 (EFE).- Racist insults against some of England’s national team players after losing the Euro 2020 final on a penalty shootout to Italy (3-2) drew backlash from soccer and political authorities in the country Monday.

Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka were the target of racist abuse after missing their respective penalties in the final held at Wembley stadium.

“Those responsible for this appalling abuse should be ashamed of themselves,” British Prime Minister Boris Johnson posted on his Twitter account.

Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, also slammed the online abuse that has “sickened” him.

“It is totally unacceptable that players have to endure this abhorrent behavior,” he tweeted. “It must stop now and all those involved should be held accountable.”

The football federation condemned the racist behavior which is “not welcome in following the team”.

“We will do all we can to support the players affected while urging the toughest punishments possible for anyone responsible,” the federation said in a statement.

During a press conference held on Monday, England coach Gareth Southgate criticized the abuse as “unforgivable,” adding “it’s just not what we stand for.”

“We have been a beacon of light in bringing people together, in people being able to relate to the national team, and the national team stands for everybody and so that togetherness has to continue,” he added.

Over the past season, English soccer was plagued by online racism that targeted many players, prompting clubs, athletes and the Premier League to stage a boycott to social media, to lobby platforms into fighting abuse on their platforms. EFE