Racial abuse of Hoops’ player elicits condemnation from FAI

THE FAI and Shamrock Rovers have condemned an alleged incident of racial abuse directed at a member of the Hoops’ squad at Oriel Park on Sunday night.

The remarks were directed at the team’s defender, Roberto Lopes, by a Dundalk FC supporter following the club’s match against the Louth side.

In a statement released on Monday afternoon, Shamrock Rovers said: “Shamrock Rovers FC condemns the racist remarks made to our player Roberto Lopes following our Cup tie against Dundalk.

“The incident took place outside the ground as the squad was preparing to leave Oriel Park.

“We understand that the individual concerned has been identified and we support Dundalk FC in taking the necessary actions against this person.

“We welcome and thank Dundalk FC for their swift action on this matter.”

The FAI also released a statement on Monday afternoon, strongly condemning the incident and adding that the association will take further action about it if required.

“The Football Association of Ireland and the League of Ireland are aware of an alleged racial abuse incident directed at a Shamrock Rovers player outside Oriel Park on Sunday which we condemn in the strongest possible terms,” stated the FAI.

“The FAI and the League of Ireland are liaising with the clubs and will support any action taken by Dundalk FC against any supporter found guilty of racially abusing a Shamrock Rovers player in the aftermath of the Sports Direct Men’s FAI Cup First Round game.

“The FAI will take further action if required.

“We again reiterate that the FAI and the League of Ireland operate a zero-tolerance policy against the abuse of any player, coach, match official, club official or supporter.”

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