John Terry faces racism charge
Chelsea and England captain John Terry will be charged for allegedly racially abusing Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand in a Premier League match in October.
Terry will appear in court on 1 February and could be fined up to £2,500 if found guilty.
Police had been investigating a complaint that he racially abused Ferdinand, the younger brother of Terry’s long-time international team-mate Rio, during Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat.
“I am satisfied there is sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction and it is in the public interest to prosecute this case,” Alison Saunders, chief crown prosecutor for London said in a statement.
Chelsea have issued a statement in which they stand by their skipper, who has denied making a racist comment.
The statement reads: “John has made it clear he denies the charge and is determined to do all he can to prove his innocence.
FA takes moral stand against casual racism
“Chelsea FC has always been fully supportive of John in this matter and there is no question that we will continue to be so.
“The club finds all forms of discrimination abhorrent and we are proud of the work we undertake campaigning on this important issue.”
Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas pledged his support to the defender shortly before the CPS made its announcement.
“The only thing I know is that I will be fully supportive of John Terry, whatever the outcome,” he said.
“He has my full support, he has the club’s full support. We know exactly his human values and personality. They are never in doubt.”
Terry had previously said: “I have never aimed a racist remark at anyone and count people from all races and creeds among my closest friends.
“I will fight tooth and nail to prove my innocence. I have campaigned against racism and believe there is no place for it in society.”