Sam Kerr faces potential captaincy change following court verdict
Sam Kerr's sponsors are reportedly maintaining their support for the Aussie football star following her not guilty verdict. However, former Matildas player Elissia Carnavas has suggested that it may be in the best interest of all parties if Kerr decides to relinquish the captaincy instead of it being taken away by Football Australia.
Football Australia released a statement on Wednesday after Kerr was found not guilty in a London court, pledging their support while emphasising the need to remind her of "behavioural standards and expectations". The governing body plans to meet with Kerr in the coming days, with a decision regarding the Matildas captaincy expected to follow.
There are calls for Football Australia to strip Kerr of the captaincy due to some of the behaviour exhibited during the incident in early 2023. Additionally, she had not informed the governing body about her arrest, despite believing she had not broken any laws and anticipating no charges would be filed.
It is possible that Kerr may choose to step down as Matildas captain voluntarily. She has not captained the team for nearly 18 months due to an ACL injury she sustained in January 2024, which has kept her off the field.
Vice-captain Steph Catley has been leading the team in Kerr's absence and will continue to do so at the 'SheBelievesCup' in America later this month. Kerr is not expected to return to the Matildas until April, which will mark more than a year-and-a-half since she last played for Australia and served as captain.
Many believe Kerr may feel that Catley deserves to continue as captain after holding the position for so long. Carnavas remarked on ABC Sport, "Is it an optimum time for Sam to hand back the armband? I think it would be a reflection of her character if she did. Putting the team first, putting the organisation first, and the Matildas as well is really important."
Kerr’s decision to perhaps let Catley retain the captaincy might have roots in a telling moment during the 2023 World Cup. Kerr missed the first two matches due to a calf injury but played during the third against Denmark. After the 2-0 victory, Kerr, who had taken back the captaincy from Catley, permitted Catley to deliver the post-match address, suggesting that Kerr may be inclined to step back.
Regarding her brand, the ongoing controversy does not seem to have immediately affected Kerr's sponsorship deals. She has a deal worth $1 million with Nike and a reported $600,000 annually partnership with Visa, alongside an estimated net worth of $5 million. PR agency Pearman Media, who represents Kerr post-verdict, reported that she has yet to lose any sponsorship or endorsement deals. However, general manager Katy Lozancic commented, "It will undoubtedly impact commercial arrangements for her, and brands will observe this carefully considering how it affects their business." She added, "It is quite jarring to see that behaviour and it is uncomfortable viewing, considering what we've seen from her and what the Matildas represent. I believe she will face a challenging six months ahead, needing a period of rehabilitation."
