‘No room for racism’: Premier league players to continue taking a knee in 21/22 season
Premier League players from all 20 clubs will continue to take a knee during the upcoming 2021-22 season to highlight their opposition to racism.
Players and staff have been taking a knee prior to kick-off in games since June 2020 to show their support for the movement for racial equality.
The decision is “wholeheartedly supported” by the EPL, with players and match officials wearing ‘No Room For Racism’ badges on their shirts.
According to skysports news, the Premier League said in a statement: “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.”
EPL chief executive Richard Masters said: “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.”
Crystal Palace forward Wilfried Zaha became the first Premier League player to not take a knee before games last season, stating in his view the act is “degrading”.
Brentford, who open the new EPL campaign against Arsenal on August 13, stopped taking a knee before games last season because they felt the gesture no longer had the required impact.
