Sam Kerr’s Potential Return as Matildas Captain Confirmed by Football Australia

On Monday, Football Australia has signalled a potential return for Sam Kerr as captain of the Matildas, announcing that no further action will be taken in response to a recent court appearance linked to an incident in the UK.

In February, the Chelsea striker was acquitted of racially aggravated abuse stemming from a confrontation in 2023, during which she described a police officer as “stupid and white.”

Football Australia confirmed that the 31-year-old has recognised the “far-reaching implications” of her behaviour.

“Sam is a highly valued member of the Matildas, and her leadership qualities are well acknowledged by her teammates,” stated board member Heather Garriock.

Following Kerr’s serious knee injury in 2024, defender Steph Catley assumed the captaincy for the national team.

“We eagerly anticipate her return when she is fit and ready, and we wholeheartedly support her ongoing journey in Australian football,” Garriock added.

Kerr recently held discussions with Football Australia officials regarding her future with the national team.

“I want to sincerely apologise for the way things unfolded,” Kerr said in a statement.

“This has been an exceptionally tough time for me, my club, my teammates, and, most importantly, the fans whose support means everything to us.

“I understand that true leadership involves being aware of our actions on and off the pitch.“

Kerr and her partner, Kristie Mewis, a midfielder for West Ham, had been out socialising in January 2023 when a taxi driver took them to Twickenham Police Station.

The driver reported that they refused to cover clean-up costs after one of them was sick in the cab.

Bodycam footage from the police captured Kerr referring to the officer as “stupid and white” during their dispute at the station.

In court, Kerr contended that her remarks about the officer’s “whiteness were not intended as an insult“, and was later acquitted of the racially aggravated abuse charge.

The judge remarked that Kerr’s conduct “significantly contributed to the emergence of this allegation.” 

For over a year, Kerr has been sidelined from playing due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

Football Australia noted that as part of her return-to-play programme, which Chelsea has approved, Kerr has joined the current Matildas training camp for rehabilitation.

“Although she may take part in select training activities, Kerr has not yet received clearance for competitive matches,” Football Australia confirmed.

The Australian women’s team has two upcoming home friendlies against South Korea, the first taking place on Friday in Sydney, followed by another next Monday in Newcastle.