As the Women’s Euro 2025 unfolds across Switzerland, one sight before England’s matches has stood out — the Lionesses taking the knee in a gesture of anti-racism solidarity. While the symbolic act has become less common across the tournament, England’s unwavering commitment has reignited discussions about racial injustice, team identity, and the role of sport in social activism.
Before all three of their group-stage matches against France, the Netherlands, and Wales, England’s players dropped to one knee — joined in each instance by their opponents. Yet, beyond these fixtures, such a stance has been sporadically observed throughout the competition. The message from England, however, remains unmistakably clear.
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What Does “Taking the Knee” Mean?
Taking the knee has come to represent a peaceful protest against systemic racism and police brutality — especially targeting Black communities. It was catapulted into the global consciousness in 2020 after George Floyd, an unarmed Black man, was murdered by a white police officer in Minneapolis, USA.
But the gesture’s sporting roots trace back to September 2016, when then-San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick knelt during the US national anthem. His words still resonate today: “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses Black people and people of colour.”
Since then, taking the knee has become a powerful statement in global sport, notably embraced by English football teams in both the men’s and women’s games.
Why England Continue the Gesture at Women’s Euros 2025
The FA has made it clear that England’s stance is “player-led but with the full support from the FA.” The governing body also confirmed that UEFA had been notified of the Lionesses’ decision before the tournament began.
“It’s been something the team have done for several years,” added the FA.
From the Premier League’s post-lockdown restart in 2020 to the Women’s Super League’s consistent support ever since, England players have taken a united stand. Even as the men’s Premier League reduced the frequency of the gesture in 2022 to only “select significant moments,” WSL teams — and the national women’s team — have carried on the tradition.
During the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Team GB — comprising only England players — confirmed their intention to kneel, with head coach Hege Riise stating: “We were all united in our decision to continue doing whatever we can to raise awareness of racism and discrimination… taking the knee is an important symbol of peaceful protest against discrimination, injustice and inequality.”
England’s women maintained this approach during the 2022 Euros and the 2023 Women’s World Cup, and now continue to lead by example at Euro 2025.
A Divided Europe: Who Else is Kneeling?
While England’s consistency is notable, many other teams at Euro 2025 have not mirrored the gesture.
- Group D: France, the Netherlands, and Wales joined England in taking the knee before their group-stage clashes. However, they didn’t repeat the act when playing each other.
- Sweden: A spokesperson confirmed they would kneel with England ahead of their quarter-final clash.
- Switzerland vs Iceland (Group A): Both sides took the knee, but such moments have been rare across the rest of the competition.
UEFA has stated that teams must notify the organizers in advance if they intend to kneel so that the gesture can be scheduled into the official matchday ‘running order.’
England’s Complicated Relationship with Race and Representation
The Lionesses’ commitment to racial equality hasn’t been without internal reckoning. In 2017, the FA apologized to players Eni Aluko and Drew Spence after former manager Mark Sampson was found to have made racially discriminatory remarks. That same year, teammates were criticized for celebrating a goal with Sampson amidst the investigation. Nikita Parris, one of the goal-scorers, later apologized to Aluko in 2020.
Representation within the team has also been a point of concern. Under Hope Powell, the team’s first Black manager, six Black or mixed-race players were selected for the 2007 World Cup. But only three made the 2022 Euro-winning squad under Sarina Wiegman.
For Euro 2025, four players — Khiara Keating, Jess Carter, Lauren James, and Michelle Agyemang — are Black or mixed race.
Captain Leah Williamson acknowledged the issue: “There’s nothing that we can do right now to change it… We don’t ever want anybody to think it’s not their game because of the way they look or the colour of their skin.”
Defender Lotte Wubben-Moy added: “I’m white, I have such a massive privilege… which is part of the reason why I feel like I have such a responsibility also to push for more change.”
In a tournament where unity is often celebrated through chants and cheers, England’s Lionesses are using silence — and one knee — to make their loudest statement. Their continued stance on the issue reinforces that the fight against racism isn’t a fleeting campaign — it’s an enduring movement.
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FAQs
Why does England still take the knee in football?
England players view it as a powerful anti-racism message. It’s a long-standing, player-led tradition supported by the FA.
Is taking the knee mandatory at Women’s Euro 2025?
No, it’s optional. Teams must inform UEFA in advance if they plan to include it in the match protocol.
Which teams joined England in taking the knee?
France, the Netherlands, Wales, and Sweden (quarter-final) joined England. However, these teams didn’t do it in other matches.
Did England face backlash for taking the knee in the past?
Yes, especially during Euro 2020, some England fans booed the gesture, and certain MPs publicly criticized it.
Is there a diversity issue in English women’s football?
Yes, and it’s acknowledged by players. The number of Black or mixed-race players in the national team has dropped in recent years.
