Football Australia breaks its silence and makes a promise to Sam Kerr after Matildas superstar allegedly racially harassed a police officer
- Chelsea striker Matildas has appeared in court
- A four-day criminal trial will take place next February
- Accused of racist harassment of police officers
Football Australia has said it will “monitor” the situation surrounding Matildas captain Sam Kerr following revelations she will face trial in England in January accused of racially aggravated harassment of a police officer.
As exclusively revealed by the Daily Mail, Kerr, who plays for Chelsea in London, appeared in court in Britain on Monday accused of using abusive, threatening or insulting words that alarmed or alarmed PC Lovell during an incident at Twickenham on January 30. .
She appeared via videolink at Kingston Crown Court, speaking only to confirm her identity and enter a not guilty plea to the charge, which was later confirmed by the Metropolitan Police.
The Matildas superstar pleaded not guilty after being charged with an alleged ‘racially aggravated offence’ against a police officer
The charges against Kerr (pictured playing for Chelsea) stem from an alleged incident in London on January 30 last year
“Samantha Kerr, 30 (10.09.93) of Richmond was charged by postal charge on 21 January with a racially aggravated offense under Section 4A Public Order Act 1986,” the police charge sheet said.
‘The charge relates to an incident involving a police officer responding to a taxi fare complaint on January 30, 2023 in Twickenham.’
Kerr’s counsel denied her conduct was racially “aggravated” and Football Australia has pledged to support her.
“Football Australia is aware of the legal proceedings involving Sam Kerr in Great Britain,” an FA statement said.
Football Australia has pledged to support the star as she awaits the start of her four-day criminal trial in February 2025
‘As this is an ongoing legal matter, we are unable to comment further at this time.
“Our focus remains supporting all our players, both on and off the field. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide support where necessary.’
Both FA boss James Johnson and Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson were due to appear before the media on Tuesday to announce the next round of Matildas home games before the Paris Olympics.
Kerr will not be in Paris because she has suffered a cruciate ligament injury, which also means she can no longer play for Chelsea.