Sam Kerr and Football Australia power brokers finally meet, Matildas captain admits ‘sincere regret’ over London cop incident

Sam Kerr and Football Australia power brokers have finally met, with the Matildas captain admitting ‘sincere regret’ for a drunken incident in London; after reviewing the events, FA has concluded no further action was warranted.

Australia's forward Sam Kerr celebrating scoring her team's first goal during the Australia and New Zealand 2023 Women's World Cup semi-final football match between Australia and England at Stadium Australia in Sydney.

Sam Kerr and Football Australia power brokers have finally met, with the Matildas captain admitting “sincere regret” for how “events unfolded” after a drunken incident in London which resulted in her being arrested.

Kerr was ultimately found not guilty of a charge of causing racially aggravated harassment, after calling a Metropolitan Police officer “stupid and white”, but the Chelsea FC and Australian star had kept the incident private for many months, including during the 2023 World Cup.

Football Australia only learned about the police charge via the media, almost a year after the incident, and recently conducted a review into Kerr’s behaviour. In court Kerr said she was “antagonised” by officers after she was taken to a police station by a taxi driver following a dispute. Kerr was cleared by the jury after it deliberated for four hours.

In the statement FA said after reviewing the full context of these events, they concluded that Kerr’s professional and sincere acceptance of responsibility, as well as her acknowledgment of the far-reaching implications of on-and off-field actions, warranted no further action.

FA have not made a call on her Matildas captaincy future - with those close to the issue saying she is not currently playing so a decision isn’t warranted.

Chelsea's Australian striker Sam Kerr arrives at Kingston Crown Court in south London.

Last week Kerr met with FA chairman Anter Isaac and former Matilda and FA board member Heather Garriock to discuss the events, with insiders saying the meeting was very positive.

In the meeting, Kerr acknowledged her actions were not her ‘best moment’ and recognised the broader impact it had, including implications in relation to FA’s code of conduct.

In a joint statement released on Monday morning between Football Australia and Kerr, the Matildas star said she had been through an “incredibly difficult” period.

“I want to express my sincere regret for how events unfolded,” Kerr said.

“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. 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.”

The FA board said they sought input from various stakeholders during this review, “underscoring Football Australia’s commitment to fairness for all participants”.

“Knowing how Sam (Kerr) 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.

“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.”

Garriock, also the chair of the Football Development Committee, said Kerr remains a key member of the Matildas.

Sam Kerr leaves Kingston Crown Court after being found not guilty of causing racially aggravated harassment.

“Sam (Kerr) remains a valued member of the Matildas, recognised by her teammates for her leadership qualities,” Garriock said.

“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. 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.”

Football Australia say they will continue to stay in close, supportive communication with Kerr as she works toward full fitness. They also say the matter is closed in their eyes.

“With the matter now concluded favourably for her in court, Football Australia considers it closed,” FA said. “Kerr’s long standing record of dedication, professionalism, and leadership has consistently elevated Australian football, ensuring these recent circumstances do not overshadow her significant contributions – and she remains an inspiration to fans worldwide.”

As part of her return-to-play program, Kerr has now joined the Matildas training camp for the March/April FIFA Women’s International Window (31 March – 8 April 2025). She has been granted leave by Chelsea FC Women, she will continue her rehabilitation under the supervision of the Matildas high performance staff.

“This arrangement, developed in close collaboration between Football Australia and Chelsea FC Women, reflects a shared commitment to providing the best environment for Kerr’s recovery and reintegration into the national team,” FA said.

“While she may participate in selected training activities, Kerr has not yet been cleared for competitive football, with her focus remaining on health, progression, and long-term readiness. Football Australia and Sam Kerr will not be making any further comment.”