Premier League players are required to kneel again before kickoffs. This edition of the protest begins on Saturday, October 8 and concludes on October 16. England’s top-flight players take a knee to show solidarity against racism.
Kneeling before kickoffs became commonplace for soccer players. However, the captains of the Premier League teams decided to make some changes to the gesture in August. These players chose to pick certain games throughout the season to kneel, rather than every game.
Therefore, the movement extends beyond the next two weekends of matches. Premier League players also plan to take a knee before Boxing Day matches and cup final clashes. The captains thought that choosing certain featured games could create more impact on the theme.
Premier League players kneeling
Richard Masters, chief executive of the Premier League, fully backed the players’ move. “We support players’ decision to take a knee at specific times throughout the season,” Mathers said.
These matches further promote the fight against discrimination and educate fans.
“We know that more can be done to remove barriers and make football more inclusive. Football will benefit from greater diversity in all areas of the sport.”
Previously, players began taking a knee before games to support the Black Lives Matter movement and the league’s No Room for Racism campaign. The Premier League is committed to its crusade to promote equality, diversity and inclusion.
“Soccer is a diverse sport, bringing together communities and cultures of all backgrounds,” Masters previously stated. “This diversity has made the game stronger on the pitch and it is vital that we ensure this is reflected in all areas of the game.”
“The No Room For Racism Action Plan supports the Premier League’s ongoing commitment to promoting equality and tackling discrimination. It builds on the extensive work done by the clubs, with the aim of ensuring that everyone can reach their potential, regardless of their background.”
PHOTO: IMAGO/PA Images
