US Soccer reverses itself, repeals rule requiring players to stand during the national anthem

The U.S. Soccer Federation voted to reverse a rule that required players to stand during the national anthem. "U.S. Soccer affirms Black Lives Matter, and we support the fight against racial injustices," a Wednesday statement said.

The U.S. Soccer Board of Directors voted to repeal Policy 604-1, which prohibited players from kneeling during the national anthem.

"The policy was put in place after Megan Rapinoe kneeled in solidarity with the peaceful protest inspired by Colin Kaepernick, who was protesting police brutality, and the systematic oppression of Black people and people of color in America," the U.S. Soccer Federation said. "It has become clear that this policy was wrong and detracted from the important message of Black Lives Matter."

The U.S. Soccer Federation said it had "not done enough to listen — especially to our players — to understand and acknowledge the very real and meaningful experiences of Black and other minority communities in our country."