“We are clear that taking the knee is an important symbol of peaceful protest against discrimination, injustice and inequality in society.”

British Olympic Association’s Andy Anson, added: “By taking the knee our women’s football side are embodying the values of Team GB.”

The new IOC rules allows athletes to ‘express their views’ before and after competition, however not during.

It also cannot include anything disruptive such as unfurling certain flags, ‘during the introduction of another athlete or team’.