Yesterday saw the beginning of John Terry’s trial for racially aggravated abuse against Anton Ferdinand in the game against QPR last season.
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It’s alleged that, during the game at Loftus Road, Terry insulted Ferdinand over a penalty claim by the Chelsea defender. It emerged that Ferdinand did not even hear the alleged insults and it was only when his girlfriend showed him a video that he saw what he thought was racist abuse.
It is a sad situation though that Ferdinand may have been judged by his race rather than his performance or the colour of the football kit he is wearing – a discrimination which should have no place anywhere.
Terry’s defence in the trial reportedly suggested that the racism has been made up, and queried whether the Ferdinand may have had words regarding Terry’s high profile extra-marital affair with Wayne Bridge’s partner. In the spirit of sportsmanship both players have admitted that it is just handbags, and Ferdinand admitted that he is used to being sworn at around footballs and has dished out swearing himself at other players regardless of race, team allegiance or nationality.
Luckily for Terry the trial is going to be held in Westminster Magistrates’ Court with no jury as it is only a summary offence.
The issue of racism has surrounded Terry since the incident occurred in late 2011, with speculation that Anton’s brother Rio was left out of the England team for Euro 2012 due to potential friction with Terry. The two have prevented many balls from hitting football nets between them and manager Hodgson may not have wanted the possibility of a split team similar to what happened around the practice grounds and football training equipment of South Africa in the 2010 World Cup – something which everyone wanted to avoid.
If he is found guilty, Terry will face a maximum fine of £2,500. The trial is set to last five days.
Image Rights: Julian Mason
