Public Unaware: Kerr’s Captaincy Decision Announced Amid Missing Info

Young Socceroos steer Victory to win | 01:41

Sam Kerr has joined the Matildas in camp for their upcoming matches against South Korea in Sydney and Newcastle after Football Australia ruled that no further action should be taken against the star striker after she was found not guilty of racially aggravated harassment of a police officer.

Kerr, who hasn’t playing since rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in her knee in January last year, met with the FA board in relation to its code of conduct.

An FA statement said that Kerr acknowledged her actions which led to her arrest were “not her best moment and recognised the broader impact it had”.

“Knowing how Sam feels about the events, along with the additional context we’ve learned, has added vital perspective that the general public may not be aware of,” Football Australia chairman Anter Isaac said in explaining the decision to take no further action against Kerr.

“Setting aside those difficulties, this one incident should not offset the incredible contributions she has made, both publicly and privately, on and off the field for more than 15 years.”

The FA said the circumstances “warranted no further action” against Kerr.

Chelsea’s Kerr said she wanted to express her “sincere regret for how events unfolded”.

“It was an incredibly difficult period for me, my family, my club, my teammates, and especially for the fans whose support means so much to us,” she said.

“I recognise that leadership means being mindful of our actions both on and off the pitch.

“I’m proud of the Matildas, the role I have played as a member of that team, and everything we stand for, and I’m committed to learning from this experience.

“Moving forward, I’m focused on doing my part to ensure we grow even stronger together, and I look forward to having the opportunity of rejoining the team once I’m fit and ready.”

Sam Kerr has joined the Matildas for a training camp. Photo: Izhar Khan/AFP.Source: AFP

FA board member and chair of the football development committee Heather Garriock said Kerr remained a “valued member of the Matildas, recognised by her teammates for her leadership qualities”.

“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,” Garriock said.

“The team will continue open dialogue to ensure we all grow and learn together.

“In light of these events, Football Australia is also refining its guidelines and training at every level to reinforce accountability, address potential reputational risks, and explore policy enhancements that will help prevent similar incidents and support everyone involved in the future.”

While she won’t play for the Matildas against South Korea on Friday in Sydney and next Monday in Newcastle, she may take part in “selected training activities” and will continue her rehabilitation under the supervision of the Matildas’ performance support team.