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Prince William cops Meghan fan backlash after taking aim at racists following England’s Euro 2020 loss

Headshot of Natalie Richards
Natalie RichardsThe West Australian
VideoPrince William and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson have hit out at racial abuse levelled at three players who missed penalty shots in England’s match against Italy in the Euro final

Prince William has found himself the target of an unprecedented backlash after taking aim at racists following England’s Euro 2020 loss.

The future king took to social media to tell how he was “sickened” by the racist abuse aimed at players following their loss to Italy in a penalty shootout on Sunday night.

“It is totally unacceptable that players have to endure this abhorrent behaviour,” he wrote.

“It must stop now and all those involved should be held accountable.”

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The message, signed off with a “W”, was welcomed by many royalists, but countless fans have blasted the Prince for the comments, just months after Meghan Markle voiced explosive claims of racism within the royal household.

William, Kate and George at the Euro 2020 final at Wembley Stadium.
Camera IconWilliam, Kate and George at the Euro 2020 final at Wembley Stadium. Credit: Carl Recine/AP

The Duchess of Sussex claimed that, when she was pregnant with Archie, an unnamed member of the royal family raised “concerns and conversations about how dark his skin might be when he’s born”.

And many fans were quick to point out her brother-in-law’s silence over claims.

“We're waiting for a similar statement about the racial abuse against your sister-in-law and nephew. Thanks in advance,” wrote one Twitter user.

“Good. Now do that for Meghan Markle,” chimed in another.

“People who live in glass palaces….” added another follower.

Meghan and Harry during their bombshell Oprah Winfrey interview.
Camera IconMeghan and Harry during their bombshell Oprah Winfrey interview. Credit: Joe Pugliese/AP

Prince William is the President of England’s Football Association and was in the VIP area to witness the Euro 2020 final alongside Duchess Kate and Prince George.

He followed countless players and celebrities in slamming the racial abuse aimed at Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho, who missed their penalties in the deciding shootout.

The comments prompted a police investigation and wide condemnation, although critics accused some ministers of hypocrisy for refusing to support a high-profile anti-racist stance the players had made during the tournament.

England boss Gareth Southgate labelled the racial abuse as unforgivable, while captain Harry Kane said the players had “courage”.

“They deserve support & backing not the vile racist abuse they've had since last night. If you abuse anyone on social media you're not an @England fan and we don't want you,” he said.

Originally published as Prince William cops Meghan fan backlash after taking aim at racists following England’s Euro 2020 loss

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