Hailey

We want to use this opportunity to say that we stand in full solidarity with Jess Carter.

We are convinced she is not the only player who was targeted by hateful and discriminatory comments during this tournament. We saw far too many comments displaying an open hostility towards Players of Colour, discrediting their talent and hard work.

As Women's football continues to grow and tournaments become bigger each year, it is absolutely crucial to speak up now. It is a disgrace that people believe they can target a player for their race simply because they’re unhappy with her performance or attitude.

This is a frustrating and unacceptable development in women's football and football in general. The attention women's football is receiving is not an invitation for hate.

We can’t keep complaining about the lack of diversity in women's football and then close our eyes to the abuse of Players of Colour.

Because this isn’t just about the players today, it also sends a message to the young girls watching, wondering if there’s a place for them in this sport.

So as always:

Let’s keep womens football a safe space for everyone. Call it out. Say something. Let’s keep the game inclusive.

Statements from Jess Carter and the Lionesses instagram account: