The incident took place during Chelsea’s loss to Queens Park Rangers (QPR) in a Premier League game on Oct. 23. Terry was charged with a “racially aggravated public order offence” after video footage shows him shouting what appears to be a racial slur at QPR defender Ferdinand. Terry faces a fine of up to 2,500 ($3,951) if he is found guilty of the charges.
“Mr. Terry has consistently and resolutely maintained that his well-publicised remarks were made in the belief that he was being accused of racist abuse by Mr. Ferdinand,” his lawyers said in a statement.
The trial was postponed until the week of July, 9, but the FA (English soccer’s governing body) decided he would not officially lead the team until the court case has been resolved.
“This decision has been taken due to the higher profile nature of the England captaincy, on and off the pitch, and the additional demands and requirements expected of the captain leading into and during a tournament,” the FA said in a statement.
England will participate in this summer’s European Championships, but Terry will not lead his national team onto the field. But the FA decided that he will remain eligible for selection on the team.
England manager Fabio Capello will most likely continue to use the 31-year-old at the center of his defense. Terry has made 72 appearances for England, and is expected to maintain his status as a key figure both on the field and in the locker room.
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Photo via Flickr/Andrea Sartorati
