The FAI has been fined €20,000 after members of the Irish women’s team were filmed singing a pro-IRA song earlier this year.

The players were criticised for singing the Wolfe Tones’ hit Celtic Symphony in the dressing room after they qualified for the World Cup back in October.

The team apologised the following morning; however, the UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector today decided to fine the FAI.

It said the team had violated “the basic rules of decent conduct”.

FAI

In a statement, the FAI said it “notes and accepts” the fine.

“The FAI and the Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team has apologised to all affected by events after the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Play-Off against Scotland in Hampden Park in October,” it said.

“The FAI has assured UEFA that all players and staff across all of our international teams have been, and will continue to be, reminded of their responsibilities every time they represent their country.”

World Cup

Ireland’s 1-0 win over Scotland at Hampden Park saw the women’s team qualifying for the World Cup for first time.

Vera Pauw’s team will now compete at the showcase tournament Australia and New Zealand next summer.

After winning the ‘biggest match in the history of Irish women’s sport’, the Ireland manager said the team had seized ‘their moment’ with both hands.

Defender Niamh Fahey said she could not put the achievement into words after trying to qualify for so many years.

Main image shows Republic of Ireland manager Vera Pauw joins the celebrations with her players and staff after the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 Play-off match between Scotland and Republic of Ireland at Hampden Park in Glasgow, Scotland. Picture by: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile