Hallgrimsson news conference cut short as racism allegations surface
Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson's pre-match media briefing was abruptly ended after reporters raised allegations of racism by Irish players and an unrelated flight incident.
Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson faced questions about Sunday's Nations League Group B3 match against Israel in Serbia during a pre-match news conference on Saturday. The session was cut short after reporters raised allegations of racism by Irish players and an incident on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. FAI head of communications Kieran Crowley called the racism allegations "completely untrue" and ended the briefing.
Hallgrimsson confirmed that defender Dara O'Shea, captaining in place of the injured Nathan Collins, was absent because his wife was due to give birth, and might return before kick-off. The manager also discussed the strain of the four-game international window and reviewed Thursday's 2-2 draw with Austria.
The allegations follow reports that the FAI is investigating racist abuse directed at forward Adam Idah by Israel fans in Debrecen. Hallgrimsson declined to comment on either matter, saying he would not "get involved in that as others will process that" and that it goes through a process with the FAI and UEFA. He added that both teams had reported something and hoped the focus could return to football.
The double-header against Israel has dominated Irish football discourse. Since the draw in February, the pressure group Irish Sport for Palestine launched a 'Stop The Game' campaign to boycott the fixtures over the Israel-Gaza war. Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew from the squad, while players voted by a "significant majority" to play. Protests occurred during Thursday's game in Dublin, with tennis balls thrown onto the pitch and a protester briefly interrupting play with a Palestine flag.
Hallgrimsson said it would be a "big win for this group and the association if we go through undamaged" and praised the squad's unity. He revealed the team has adopted a group prayer before leaving the dressing room, led by midfielder Conor Coventry, jokingly called "Brother Coventry". "The power of togetherness is stronger than individuals," he said.
Supporters' opinions on the situation remain divided, with some backing the team's decision to play and others supporting the boycott campaign. The FAI's investigation into the alleged abuse of Idah is ongoing.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
