Team GB women’s football team WILL take a knee during the Tokyo Olympics after the IOC adapted Rule 50 to allow athletes to make gestures during the Games
The Team GB women’s football squad will take a knee before kick-off at the forthcoming Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Recent clarification to the infamous Rule 50, which outlawed political symbols, means athletes can now make gestures on the field of play, provide they are done so without disruption and with respect for fellow competitors.
The group were keen to make the symbolic, anti-racism act, and have now voiced their intention to do so at the Games.
Team GB women’s football squad will take a knee before kick-off at the forthcoming Olympics
Hege Riise said it was important for the players to make the anti-racism gesture before games
Head coach Hege Riise explained the move. ‘The players and staff have been taking the knee at club and international level for over a year now and we were all united in our decision to continue doing whatever we can to raise awareness of racism and discrimination in all its forms, standing in unity and solidarity with all those whose lives are affected,’ she said.
‘We are clear that taking the knee is an important symbol of peaceful protest against discrimination, injustice and inequality in society and we are glad that the IOC have acknowledged the importance of this form of freedom of expression.
‘We will do so with the utmost respect for our fellow competitors, officials and the IOC, with due regard for the ideals that lie at the heart of the Olympic movement.’
British Olympic Association CEO, Andy Anson, added: ‘As one of the most diverse and inclusive sports teams in the UK, Team GB will always support any athlete from any sport and their right to promote equality and a more just society, where it is carried out peacefully, respectfully and without disruption. By taking the knee our women’s football side are embodying the values of Team GB.’
It follows on from England men’s team taking a knee throughout the European Championship