Yahoo Finance Premier League players will continue to take the knee during 2021-22 season ‘as symbol of unity against all forms of racism’
Premier League players will continue to take the knee before all matches next season, the League has announced.
The decision follows a meeting of top-flight captains on Monday and is “wholeheartedly supported by the Premier League”.
However, the gesture will not be obligatory and individual players can continue to choose whether or not to take part.
Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha stopped taking the knee in March, saying “it doesn’t matter whether we kneel or stand, some of us still continue to receive abuse”, while newly-promoted Brentford stopped in February, saying the gesture no longer had the required impact.
The gesture was the subject of fierce debate over the summer after some England fans booed their own players taking the knee ahead of the Euro 2020 warm-up matches at Middlesbrough’s Riverside Stadium and the tournament games at Wembley.
The England squad remained committed to the anti-racism gesture, however, and its importance was underlined when Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka all suffered racist abuse online after missing penalties in England’s shootout defeat to Italy in the Final.
It is believed England’s determination to continue with the gesture in the face of opposition was discussed at yesterday’s meeting and had an impact on the players’ decision.
A statement from the captains, released by the Premier League, read: “We feel now, more than ever, it is important for us to continue to take the knee as a symbol of our unity against all forms of racism.
“We remain resolutely committed to our singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect and equal opportunities for all.”
Premier League chief executive Richard Masters added: “The Premier League, our clubs, players and match officials have a long-standing commitment to tackle racism and all forms of discrimination.
“Following our club captains’ meeting, that collective commitment was reaffirmed and the Premier League will continue to support the players’ strong voice on this important issue.
“Racism in any form is unacceptable and No Room For Racism makes our zero-tolerance stance clear. The Premier League will continue to work with our clubs, players and football partners to bring about tangible change to remove inequality from our game.”
Players and officials will also continue to wear a ‘No Room For Racism’ badge on the sleeves of their shirts next season.
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