Sam Kerr's Bid to Dismiss Racial Abuse Case Delayed as Prosecutors Granted More Time

Australian soccer star Sam Kerr's attempt to have a racial abuse case against her dismissed has been delayed after prosecutors were granted additional time to build their case. Kerr, who plays for Chelsea and captains the Australian national team, is facing a charge of racially aggravated harassment of a police officer in the UK.

The incident allegedly occurred outside a police station in London in January 2022, shortly after Kerr had played a successful match with Chelsea. According to the accusations, Kerr got into a dispute with a taxi driver and was reported to have been sick in the cab. When police intervened, Kerr is alleged to have called the officer a "stupid white bastard" or "stupid white cop."

Kerr's legal team was set to argue that the case was subject to abuse of process, as it took prosecutors almost a year to charge her. However, the judge has now granted the prosecution more time to build their case against the star.

The prosecution had previously missed a deadline to collect necessary evidence, including CCTV footage and written statements needed for cross-examining Kerr. They must now lodge their response to the defense's abuse of process arguments by May 15. As a result, the hearing originally scheduled for this Friday has been postponed to May 20.

Why this matters: The case against Sam Kerr, a high-profile athlete and the reigning Young Australian of the Year, has drawn significant attention. The outcome of this racial abuse case could have implications for Kerr's reputation and career, as well as spark broader discussions about athlete conduct and the handling of such incidents by authorities.

Kerr has pleaded not guilty to the charge of racially aggravated harassment. If her abuse of process argument is unsuccessful, she is due to face trial in February 2025. This is the second extension granted to prosecutors, underscoring the complexity of the case and the importance of thorough evidence gathering. As the legal proceedings unfold, the soccer community and the public will be closely watching this court case involving one of Australia's most prominent sports stars.

Key Takeaways

• Australian soccer star Sam Kerr faces racial abuse charge in UK.
• Prosecutors granted extension to build case after missing evidence deadline.
• Kerr pleaded not guilty, argues case is subject to abuse of process.
• Hearing postponed to May 20, potential trial in February 2025.
• Case draws attention, could impact Kerr's reputation and career.