UEFA Rules Out Investigation Into Alleged Racist Abuse During Ireland-Israel Match
UEFA confirmed it cannot investigate Ireland's claim of racist abuse against Adam Idah by Israeli fans in Debrecen because mandatory protocols were not followed by players or officials.
UEFA has confirmed that it cannot investigate a claim by the Republic of Ireland national team regarding alleged racist abuse directed at Irish player Adam Idah by Israeli fans during yesterday's Nations League match in Debrecen, because the required protocol was not followed.
According to an FAI spokesperson, midfielder Jayson Molumby heard the alleged chants before halftime and asked German referee Harm Osmers and fourth official Florian Exner to "listen".
However, because Molumby did not explicitly report a racist incident and the match officials did not hear anything themselves, a UEFA delegate informed the FAI following the 3-0 defeat that an investigation could not be opened.
Meanwhile, Gavin Bazunu will be available for Ireland's third Nations League match against Austria. Bazunu had informed manager Heimir Hallgrimsson on Saturday morning that he would not play against Israel in Hungary, nor in the upcoming match in Serbia, which will also be played behind closed doors.
When asked if Bazunu wishes to continue as back-up to first-choice goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, Hallgrimsson replied: "Everything depends on Gavin's feelings. Does he want this? Maybe he feels it's better to retire. He has our support, whether he wants to stay or not. We are taking things moment by moment. Yesterday, I didn't think the match would take place at all."
