Jess Carter, a prominent player for Gotham FC, has been left emotionally distressed after receiving racially abusive messages from 60-year-old Nigel Dewale during the Women’s Euro 2025 tournament. The incident has raised significant concerns about the ongoing issue of racism in sports, particularly in women’s football.
Dewale’s actions have had serious consequences. He was sentenced to six weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months, and received a four-year football banning order along with a three-month curfew. Additionally, he was fined £239 at Blackburn Magistrates’ Court.
During the investigation led by the UK Football Policing Unit, it was revealed that Dewale had sent messages under the username ‘Bogeyman’, expressing his disdain for women’s football. “Women’s football is diabolical. Should not be on national TV,” he stated, showcasing his blatant disregard for the sport.
Following the abuse, Carter, 28, who was part of the Lionesses squad that successfully defended their title, stopped using social media due to the emotional toll it took on her and her family. The prosecution against Dewale was initiated after the UK Football Policing Unit traced the abusive messages back to his home.
Mark Roberts, Cheshire Chief Constable, condemned Dewale’s comments, stating, “Dewale sent totally abhorrent comments, causing emotional distress for Carter and her family.” This incident highlights the urgent need for stronger measures to combat racism in sports.
In addition to his prison sentence, Dewale pleaded guilty to one charge of malicious communications and possession of a weapon in a private place. The weapon, an extendable baton, was discovered during a search of his home.
John Moran for the CPS emphasized that “this type of social media offending will not be tolerated,” and noted that Dewale chose racism over patriotism during a time when England was celebrating its football achievements.
The emotional impact on Carter and her family underscores the broader implications of such abuse in sports. As the conversation around racism continues, further developments in this case are anticipated, as the community calls for accountability and change.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional measures that may be taken to address the systemic issues surrounding racism in football.