FORMER England footballer Trevor Sinclair’s tweet on the Queen and racism in England is under investigation from his employer talkSPORT.
Sinclair, who has since deleted his Twitter profile, tweeted shortly after the announcement of the Queen’s passing on Thursday: “Racism was outlawed in England in the 60’s & its been allowed to thrive so why should black & brown mourn!! #queen”.
Sinclair’s tweet sparked many responses, with English Olympian Kelly Sotherton tweeting in reply: “You should be ashamed of yourself ..I have no other words that are appropriate”.
Later that night, talkSPORT tweeted: “We have been trying to make contact with Trevor Sinclair following opinions expressed on his Twitter account. talkSPORT does not support those views expressed and is investigating the matter.”
The tweet from talkSPORT was met with a range of reaction on Twitter, with some supporting talkSPORT’s decision to investigate the tweet, while others pointed out Sinclair is entitled to freedom of speech and adding there is “absolutely nothing wrong” with his statement.
We have been trying to make contact with Trevor Sinclair following opinions expressed on his Twitter account. talkSPORT does not support those views expressed and is investigating the matter.
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) September 8, 2022
One person tweeted: “Investigating? He made published that tweet, he's employed by you, he has to be sacked. Failure to sack him will cost you a huge number of listeners and sponsors. Don't **** about with investigations, and suspensions.”
However, another person tweeted in support of Sinclair, and said: “I am sad the Queen has died but what exactly has he said that is objectionable or that you disagree with? He hasn't insulted her or anyone but has merely spoken truth about racism being allowed to exist still within the UK.”
Sinclair's media agents, Tongue Tied Management, said that “the matter will be dealt with internally”, adding: "At a time of national mourning, Tongue Tied Management neither supports nor condones the views shared on Trevor Sinclair’s account earlier this evening.”
Friday September 9 marks the start of 10 days of national mourning following the Queen’s death on Thursday, with police allowing members of the public to stand at the gates of Balmoral Castle to pay respects from Friday morning.
