Bukayo Saka's Image Sparks Controversy

Bukayo Saka has been the target of critics for some media outlets’ “divisive” choice to use his photograph to illustrate England’s defeat to Iceland. Saka, who came on as a 65th-minute substitute in the game at Wembley on Friday, appeared on the back pages of several English newspapers. Former England striker Ian Wright highlighted the issue on social media. He asserted that those deciding on the back page images know exactly what they are doing. Specifically, the Star and the Sun used Saka’s image on their back pages. The Telegraph featured a picture of the 22-year-old in a player ratings post on X. Additionally, the BBC Sport website’s live text, which updates its main image throughout the match, showed Saka after he had come on.

In an open letter to editors, Kick It Out chief executive Tony Burnett emphasized the media’s responsibilities. He noted that despite efforts to diversify the media industry, many fans question if anything has truly changed. He recalled the abuse Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho faced after the last Euros final and expressed concerns about a potential repeat during Euro 2024. Burnett highlighted that authorities have prosecuted abusers and passed the Online Safety Bill. However, reports of abuse targeting players have increased both online and in stadiums. He stressed that the media’s portrayal of black players has long-lasting impacts.

These portrayals send harmful messages to both the players and their communities. Delroy Corinaldi, executive director of the Black Footballers Partnership, called the use of Saka’s image “divisive.” He criticized the UK media for not learning from past mistakes. He referenced Raheem Sterling’s 2018 remarks about the media unfairly targeting young black footballers. Corinaldi pointed out the recurring issue just before Euro 2024. After the Euro 2020 final, Saka, Rashford and Sancho faced racial abuse for missing penalties in England’s 3-2 shootout loss to Italy. Raheem Sterling previously accused newspapers of fueling racism through their portrayal of young black footballers.

Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka, who debuted for England in October 2020, has earned 33 caps and scored 11 goals. Ian Wright called for greater media responsibility and support for young players. He urged fans to focus on giving them love and support throughout the tournament. Football journalist Darren Lewis, of the Daily Mirror, criticized the use of Saka’s image post-defeat. He acknowledged the concerns about Saka being made the face of England’s poor performance, despite other players performing worse. BBC Sport has sought responses from the Sun, the Star, the Telegraph, the Independent Press Standards Organisation (Ipso) and the News Media Association.