Again Ipswich defender Issa Diop refuses Premier League knee gesture

On Friday night, 23 October 2026, Ipswich Town defender Issa Diop again refused to take the knee, snubbing the Premier League anti‑racism gesture ahead of the club’s clash with Nottingham Forest. He was the only player among the 22 on the pitch to remain standing while all Nottingham Forest starters and his own teammates knelt.

Other Premier League players also refuse

Diop is one of six Premier League players who have chosen not to participate in the ‘Say No to Racism’ campaign. Everton's Ainsley Maitland‑Niles refused the gesture before the club’s match against Chelsea at the Hill Dickinson Stadium. Bournemouth's Rayan and Tyler Adams also declined to take the knee, adding to the growing list. Leeds United forward Dominic Calvert‑Lewin remained standing in the previous round, prompting boos from parts of Elland Road.

Diop’s stance mirrored his decision the week before Ipswich’s game against Manchester City, where opposition centre‑back Marc Guehi also chose to stand. Guehi’s choice highlighted the widening debate within the league as teams prepare for upcoming fixtures.

The Premier League will offer the anti‑racism gesture again over the next two weekends this month. Clubs and players will decide whether to join the campaign or continue their refusals.