FA bans Terry for 4 matches for racial abuse

Chelsea, which bans fans for life if they are found guilty of racial abuse, is standing by Terry for now.

Since making his Chelsea debut in 1998, Terry has won every major club title, including the Premier League three times and the Champions League last season, although he was suspended for the final.

"Chelsea Football Club notes and respects today's decision by the Football Association regarding John Terry," the club said. "We also recognize that John has the right to appeal that decision. It is therefore inappropriate for us to comment further on the matter at this time."

The Terry and Suarez cases that blighted last season prompted British lawmakers to investigate the apparent resurgence in racism cases.

The Culture, Media and Sport Committee praised the improvement in atmosphere at matches compared to the 1970s and '80s, but said the football authorities need to do more to combat racism in the British game.

"It would be good if there was some sort of recognition on John Terry's part that what he did was wrong," said committee member Damian Collins. "This is something football should learn from."

Rob Harris can be reached at http://twitter.com/RobHarris