FAI and Shamrock Rovers join Dundalk in condemning alleged racial abuse incident

The alleged racist remarks were directed at Roberto Lopes outside Oriel Park after the Lilywhites victory over Rovers in the FAI Cup on Sunday.

A view of Oriel Park ahead of the game. Pic Credit ©INPHO/Evan Treacy

Dundalk confirm that they have identified the supporter that allegedly racially abused a Shamrock Rovers player in their aftermath of their FAI Cup clash on Sunday.

The Lilywhites defeated Rovers 1-0 at Oriel Park in the opening round of the national competition, despite finishing the cup tie with ten men, thanks to Hayden Muller's first half strike.

It was at some point after the full-time whistle had been blown that the alleged racist comment was made from the Dundalk fans in the direction of a Hoops player.

And in a statement released on Sunday night, the Louth club confirmed they have identified the culprit but they are appealing for further witnesses to come forward as they investigation continues.

"Dundalk FC has been made aware of an incident that took place following our Sports Direct FAI Cup match with Shamrock Rovers at Oriel Park on Sunday when a racist comment was allegedly directed towards an opposition player.

"We have made contact with Shamrock Rovers and are currently investigating the incident. We would like to thank the Dundalk supporters who contacted the club quickly to report it. We have identified the individual involved and would encourage anyone with information to come forward.

"Dundalk FC has a zero-tolerance policy towards racism. Racist or discriminatory behaviour towards any player, official, staff member or supporter is completely unacceptable and has no place in our game or wider society. These people are not simply not welcome at Oriel Park.

On Monday afternoon, the FAI released a statement to condemn the incident.

"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.

"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.

Shamrock Rovers added; "Shamrock Rovers F.C. 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 were preparing to leave Oriel Park.

"We understand that the individual concerned has been identified and we support Dundalk F.C. in taking the necessary actions against this person. We welcome and thank Dundalk F.C. for their swift action on this matter."