The Duke of Cambridge has called for racist abuse aimed at footballers to stop, calling it “despicable”.
Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford was the latest player subjected to racist abuse this weekend after a series of incidents.
On Sunday, Greater Manchester Police began an investigation into the abuse.
And writing on Twitter, Prince William, who is also the president of the Football Association, praised those who had spoken out.
He said: “Racist abuse – whether on the pitch, in the stands, or on social media – is despicable and it must stop now.
“We all have a responsibility to create an environment where such abuse is not tolerated, and those who choose to spread hate and division are held accountable for their actions. That responsibility extends to the platforms where so much of this activity now takes place.
“I commend all those players, supporters, clubs and organisations who continue to call out and condemn this abuse in the strongest terms.”
The abuse aimed at Rashford on Saturday followed similar treatment of team-mates Axel Tuanzebe and Anthony Martial.