FAI probes alleged racist abuse of Adam Idah during Ireland's win over Israel
The FAI is investigating whether Adam Idah was racially abused by Israel supporters during Ireland's 3-0 Nations League win, assembling footage after Uefa said protocols were not followed.
The Football Association of Ireland is investigating an allegation that forward Adam Idah was racially abused by Israel supporters during Sunday's 3-0 Uefa Nations League win for the Republic of Ireland. According to BBC Sport, midfielder Jayson Molumby alerted match officials during play to what he believed was abusive chanting from the small number of Israel fans present. The officials later told FAI staff they did not hear racist chanting after the final whistle.
When the FAI raised the matter with the Uefa match delegate, it was told that because no clear racism allegation was reported during the game, standard protocols were not triggered and a Uefa investigation could not proceed. The FAI is now gathering high-quality match footage, including pitchside audio, and setting up a panel to determine whether abuse was directed at Idah. If the panel finds evidence, the FAI will complain to Uefa and seek a further investigation. Idah was unaware of any possible abuse during the match and is being supported by team-mates and staff.
The match in Debrecen, Hungary, had about 300 Israel supporters and no tickets sold to Irish fans, though a few entered the stadium. Ireland did not shake hands or exchange pennants with Israel, and Irish players bowed their heads during the Israeli national anthem. After scoring Ireland's third goal, Jack Moylan held up and kissed a black armband worn by the team "in recognition of all lives lost in the conflict." Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew from the squad after a long hotel meeting, saying his faith and principles made participation wrong; he has returned for Thursday's game against Austria in Dublin but will miss the second Israel fixture.
That second match, a nominal home game for Ireland on Sunday, has been moved to Backa Topola, Serbia, and will be played behind closed doors amid ongoing protests over the FAI's decision to fulfil the fixtures. The FAI voted earlier this year to play, fearing sanctions such as fines or expulsion if it boycotted. It is unclear whether the FAI will present its case to Uefa before or after Sunday's game. The FAI has also asked Uefa to keep Ireland and Israel apart in future draws.
Israel captain Manor Solomon said he is waiting for the next game and described it as a completely different affair, adding that the teams' feelings are mutual. "Obviously they hate us. We don't like them," he said, also expressing pride in his country and soldiers. Supporters on the Irish side have strongly opposed the decision to play the fixtures, with many criticising the FAI, while Israel fans present in Debrecen backed their team. BBC Sport has contacted Uefa for comment.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
