FAI to investigate alleged racist abuse of Swansea City star during Israel clash

The incident happened during a controversial contest in Debrecen

The Football Association of Ireland has confirmed it’s to launch an investigation into alleged racist chants aimed at Adam Idah during the Republic of Ireland’s tense UEFA Nations League clash with Israel on Sunday.

However, the incident will not be investigated by UEFA themselves as their protocols into racist abuse had not been followed on the night.

According to the Irish Times, Jayson Molumby claimed he heard racist chants towards the Swansea City striker, who was on target in a 3-0 win for his side.

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Molumby had allegedly told officials to listen out for the chants, but because he hadn’t actually stated a racist incident had occurred, and because the officials hadn’t heard anything themselves, the governing body won’t be launching an investigation.

Nevertheless, the FAI has pledged to review the video evidence from the game, and will present any findings to UEFA.

“We’re going to review the video evidence from the game and try and determine if there is any evidence of racism,” said an FAI spokesperson.

“If we believe that to be the case, we will send [the evidence] to UEFA demanding an investigation into the incident.”

It’s claimed Idah himself was unaware of any abuse.

Ireland’s clash with Israel has been in sharp focus all week, with Idah and his team-mates holding a meeting on Friday to decide whether they would even go through with the fixture, amid widespread protests against Israel from Irish fans and politicians.

The FAI voted to play both Nations League games against Israel, but they were moved to neutral venues.

Sunday’s clash was held in the Hungarian city of Debrecen, with some 300 Israel supporters admitted, and no tickets sold to ‘away’ Irish fans.

The return game this weekend is set to be held in Backa Topola in Serbia, and there is still some pressure on the Irish side to boycott that game.

It’s claimed further discussions are likely around whether the team decides to play the upcoming fixture.

Asked directly whether his team would fulfil the game, Irish boss Heimir Hallgrimsson had no update.

“It was a tough enough decision to play this game,” he said.

“You know the story, everything seems to leak from private player meetings. You probably know more than me.”

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