Man arrested over racially abusive messages sent to Lionesses star Jess Carter during Euro 2025

A 59-year-old man has been arrested by Lancashire Police on suspicion of sending malicious communications following racist and abusive messages sent to Lionesses hero Carter during the Euros. The suspect has since been released under investigation.

Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer issued a statement of support for Carter when the messages first came to light and Cheshire Constabulary Chief Constable Mark Roberts said: "The messages directed towards Carter were appalling, and I would like to commend her for standing up to this abuse and assisting with our investigation. Nobody should be subjected to such disgusting abuse, and I expect that today’s arrest will be the first of many over the coming months. We want to make it clear that racist abuse of this nature will not be tolerated. Everyone is responsible for what they do and say, and we want to ensure offenders cannot hide behind a social media profile to post vile comments."

At the time, Carter said: "The support I felt from the fans was incredible. I can't thank them enough because without the fans, my team-mates and my family, I don't know if I'd have every had the courage to back on the pitch and play again. I'm not normally someone who struggles with the hate they received because everyone is going to have their opinion. But this tournament has been tough and I wasn't sure I'd be able to get back on the pitch and do me."

Carter, who missed out on England's celebrations to return to her club side Gotham FC, will now have to wait and see what happens with the police investigation and won't be able comment further if the man is charged.