John Terry to Face Charges of Racism

Chelsea and England captain John Terry will face charges of racism, the Crown Prosecution Service has confirmed this morning.

It is alleged Terry racially abused QPR's Anton Ferdinand during a Premier League match at Loftus Road, on October 23, during Chelsea's 1-0 defeat.

Terry was questioned by Police in November, and the case file passed to the CPS in December. He denies making racist comments.

Here follows the full statement from Alison Saunders, Chief Prosecutor for London.

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I have today advised the Metropolitan Police Service that John Terry should be prosecuted for a racially aggravated public order offence following comments allegedly made during a Premier League football match between Queen's Park Rangers and Chelsea on 23 October 2011.

The decision was taken in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors and after careful consideration of all the evidence I am satisfied there is sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction and it is in the public interest to prosecute this case.

Mr Terry will appear before West London Magistrates' Court on 1 February 2012. He is now summonsed with a criminal offence and has the right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that nothing should be reported which could prejudice his trial.

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The news follows yesterday's decision by the FA to ban Luis Suarez for eight games and fine the Liverpool player £40,000 for alleged racist abuse towards Manchester United's Patrice Evra. More on that one here.