UEFA serve FAI with new investigation over tennis ball protest

March 29 – UEFA have opened disciplinary proceedings against the Republic of Ireland as a result of a protest from supporters which briefly interrupted last Tuesday night’s game against Georgia.

Ireland were 1-0 winners in the Euro 2020 qualifier but the game was held up for approximately two minutes after supporters threw tennis balls on to the pitch in protest over the governance of the Football Association of Ireland following recent revelations that former chief executive John Delaney provided a €113,000 “bridging loan” – which was later repaid – to the FAI in 2017.

The case will be dealt with by the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary on May 16

Delaney is due to appear before lawmakers on April 10 to explain the personal loan. The story broke 10 days ago after he failed with a court application to prevent publication by a Sunday newspaper.

Shortly afterwards he stepped aside after 14 years as chief executive and instead took on a newly created position as executive vice-president. In his new role, Delaney, a member of UEFA’s executive committee, will have responsibility for all FIFA and UEFA matters.

Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1711705994labto1711705994ofdlr1711705994owedi1711705994sni@w1711705994ahsra1711705994w.wer1711705994dna1711705994