Kick It Out statement on The Football Association
Following the outcome of the second independent report published by Katharine Newton and its conclusions into the process surrounding Eni Aluko’s culture report, as well as the evidence submitted to the DCMS Select Committee review today, Kick It Out, football’s equality and inclusion organisation, has released the following statement.
The statement reads:
“Kick It Out notes the outcome of the second independent report published by Katharine Newton and its conclusions, as well as the evidence submitted to the DCMS Select Committee review today (18 October).
“The organisation’s concerns have always been in relation to the way in which The Football Association responded to the original submission by Eni Aluko, based on her experiences as a member of the England Women’s Senior Team.
“Despite the public apology from Martin Glenn, Chief Executive of The FA, relating to Mark Sampson’s use of racist language to two England players, it is now apparent that The FA’s processes were inadequate throughout. They have condoned and covered up the behaviour of Sampson, whilst failing to provide sufficient support to the victim who brought forward this case.
“It was evident from today’s review that The FA still lacks the appropriate protocols to deal with incidents of racism within the national team setup.
“Whilst Kick It Out understands The FA is now taking action to address the shortcomings that have been identified, it is essential that going forward they combat and challenge incidents of racism more effectively.
“They have failed to do this with Aluko, and their aim should be to ensure that they are better equipped to prevent and respond to any similar incidents in the future.”
