Terry accepts FA ban and apologises for racial language

Former England captain John Terry has decided not to appeal against his FA ban for racially abusing QPR defender Anton Ferdinand.

The 31-year-old released a statement earlier today announcing his decision:

“After careful consideration, I have decided not to appeal against the FA judgment.”

“I want to take this opportunity to apologise to everyone for the language I used in the game against Queens Park Rangers last October.”

“Although I’m disappointed with the FA judgment, I accept that the language I used, regardless of the context, is not acceptable on the football field or indeed in any walk of life.”

“As I stated in the criminal case, with the benefit of hindsight my language was clearly not an appropriate reaction to the situation for someone in my position.”

“My response was below the level expected by Chelsea Football Club, and by me, and it will not happen again.”

“Looking forward, I will continue to do my part in assisting the club to remove all types of discriminatory behaviour from football.”

“I am extremely grateful for the consistent support of Chelsea FC, the fans and my family.”

The Chelsea captain had previously been found not guilty at Westminster Crown Court for the same offence, but the FA decided a case was still to be answered, despite its ruling that states that any criminal judgment shall be deemed final.

Terry will now miss Chelsea’s next four fixtures against Tottenham on Saturday, Manchester United in the league, and Capital One Cup and Swansea. He will, however, be available for Chelsea’s Champions League trip to Shakhtar Donetsk as the competition falls outside the FA’s jurisdiction. 

Chelsea has released a statement on the matter, and insisted any disciplinary matters would be kept private. The statement read: “The Board has conducted its own investigation into the matter, and considered the various issues involved. The Board has taken further disciplinary action in addition to the four-match suspension and £220,000 fine imposed by the FA. In accordance with our long-standing policy, that disciplinary action will remain confidential.”

Chelsea defender Ashley Cole has also been in trouble with the FA; he was handed a £90,000 fine for his “bunch of twats” tweets aimed at the FA.

Sports staff