Australia open door for Kerr’s return as Matildas captain

SYDNEY – Football Australia on March 31 opened the door for Sam Kerr’s return as Matildas captain, saying that they would take no further action over a drunken altercation that landed her in a UK court.

The Chelsea forward was in February found not guilty of racially aggravated abuse after a 2023 incident in which she called a police officer “stupid and white”.

Football Australia said the 31-year-old had also acknowledged the “far-reaching implications” of her actions.

“Sam remains a valued member of the Matildas, recognised by her teammates for her leadership qualities,” added board member Heather Garriock.

“We look forward to the opportunity of welcoming her back once she is fit and ready, and we fully support her ongoing journey in Australian football.”

Defender Steph Catley took over the Australia captaincy after Kerr suffered a serious knee injury in 2024, and was a possible candidate to take over the armband.

But Kerr recently met Football Australia officials to discuss her future with the national side.

“I want to express my sincere regret for how events unfolded,” she said in a statement.

“It was an incredibly difficult period for me, my club, my teammates, and especially for the fans whose support means so much to us. I recognise that leadership means being mindful of our actions both on and off the pitch.”

Kerr and her partner, West Ham United midfielder Kristie Mewis, had been out drinking in January 2023 when they were driven to Twickenham Police Station by a taxi driver.

The driver had complained that they had refused to pay clean-up costs after one of them vomited in the vehicle.

Subsequently, police body cam footage showed Kerr calling the officer “stupid and white” as she argued with him inside the police station.

Following the incident, she argued in court that she did not use the officer’s “whiteness as an insult”, and would later be cleared of racially aggravated abuse.

The judge did note, however, that Kerr’s behaviour “contributed significantly to the bringing of this allegation”.

The Australian has not played football for more than a year after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

Football Australia said that as part of her return-to-play programme, which was agreed by Chelsea, Kerr had joined the current Matildas training camp to continue her rehabilitation.

“While she may participate in selected training activities, Kerr has not yet been cleared for competitive football,” said Football Australia.

Australia’s women have two home friendlies against South Korea.

The first is on April 4 in Sydney and the second on April 7 in Newcastle. AFP