Chelsea captain John Terry is facing charges over the alleged racist abuse of Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand.
Terry allegedly made the remarks towards Ferdinand during Chelsea's 1-0 loss to QPR in their English Premier League clash at Loftus Road on October 23, and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed on Wednesday that the defender would face charges.
Alison Saunders, Chief Crown Prosecutor for London, said: "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 Queens 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."
The decision comes a day after Liverpool forward Luis Suarez was handed an eight-game ban and 40,000 pound fine by the Football Association (FA) for racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra.
A statement from Terry, who has pledged his innocence since the incident, shortly after the verdict read: "I hope to be given a chance to clear my name."
"I have never aimed a racist remark at anyone and count people from all creeds amongst my friends."
Chelsea said they would continue to stand by their captain as the legal process ran its course.
"John has made it clear he denies the charge and is determined to do all he can to prove his innocence," a statement from the club read.
"Chelsea FC has always been fully supportive of John in this matter and there is no question that we will continue to be so."
"The club finds all forms of discrimination abhorrent and we are proud of the work we undertake campaigning on this important issue."
Andre Villas-Boas' men are preparing for their English Premier League derby clash against Tottenham on Thursday.