John Galliano, released from fashion house Christian Dior after an online video showed him praising Adolf Hitler, will go on trial over alleged racial insults following an investigation by French prosecutors.

The trial could take place between April and June, and Galliano could face up to six months in prison and about $31,000 US in fines if convicted, the prosecutor's office said in a statement Wednesday.

Earlier in the day, the controversial British designer released an apology, although he denied any charges of anti-Semitism.

"Anti-Semitism and racism have no part in our society. I unreservedly apologize for my behaviour in causing any offence," he said in the statement released through his British lawyers, a day after he was fired at the start of the Paris ready-to-wear shows.

Galliano said he was "seeking help" for his personal failures but gave no further information, although various reports say he is heading to rehab.

'I only have myself to blame and I know that I must face up to my own failures.'—John Galliano statement

The controversy involving one of fashion's top moneymakers, known for his theatrical and outrageous runway shows that are a highlight of Paris Fashion Week, has heated up since Galliano was detained last Thursday.

He was questioned over allegations he insulted a couple at a café in Paris, using anti-Semitic remarks while apparently drunk.

A report quoting a judicial source said Tuesday that magistrates would study statements by a couple and a woman who have accused Galliano of subjecting them to insulting rants at the café near his home before deciding whether to charge him with anti-Semitic and abusive behaviour.

The video, which came to light Monday, shows Galliano saying, "I love Hitler."

The creative talent, who had been with Dior for 14 years, was subsequently fired by the design house.

'I completely deny claims'

Galliano's statement said: "I completely deny the claims made against me and have fully co-operated with the police investigation" into the café case. However, he also said he fully accepts "that the accusations made against me have greatly shocked and upset people.

"I only have myself to blame and I know that I must face up to my own failures," he said. "In all my work my inspiration has been to unite people of every race, creed, religion and sexuality by celebrating their cultural and ethnic diversity through fashion. That remains my guiding light."

Actor Natalie Portman, who is Jewish and the new advertising face of the Miss Dior Cherie perfume line, expressed fury over Galliano's remarks on Monday, one day after accepting an Academy Award on Sunday for her role as a tortured ballerina in Black Swan.

She also announced that she would sever her ties with Dior.

It's uncertain who will replace Galliano at Dior, but the fashion house plans to proceed with showing its fall-winter 2011-2012 collection on Friday.

With files from The Associated Press