Finn Harps' Rainey hits out at 'constant stream of gambling adverts' after addiction results in six-month ban from football

The FAI confirmed on Friday that Finn Harps midfielder Ryan Rainey had been banned for six months for gambling offences.

Ryan Rainey leads Harps out as captain last year. Pic: ©INPHO/Evan Logan

Finn Harps midfielder Ryan Rainey has revealed his gambling addiction after being hit with a six-month ban from football for breaching the FAI disciplinary regulations relating to betting.

The FAI confirmed on Friday that the 28-year-old had been banned for betting on several League of Ireland and FAI Cup matches as well as other games worldwide between 2021 and 2024.

In a statement issued via PFA Ireland, Rainey accepted the ban and says he has been suffering with gambling addiction.

He said: "I am also a young man who grew up wanting nothing more than to play football. I realised my dream but then reality struck. The constant stream of gambling adverts, the spare time and desire for stimulation while watching matches on television meant I developed an addiction which overtook common sense and led me down a path I now sincerely regret."

Rainey accepted that he breached rules but insists he never gambled on matches in which he was involved. 

"While I fully acknowledge that I broke the FAI's rules on betting on any matches, I stress that I did not bet on a match in which I was involved. I fully respect the integrity of the game and would not involve myself in any action that would threaten that. 

"However, I also realise that the betting rules are in place for a reason and that I breached them. That is on me and I accept full responsibility.

"I also accept the ban I have received and will not be appealing it. My intention is to seek treatment for my addiction and to return to football after my suspension as a better person and player.

"I hope that my experience assists in reform of gambling advertising which targets young men like me and is doing huge damage."

Rainey was vice-captain of Harps for the 2024 season, having captained the side the previous year.

The FAI urged all individuals involved in football to familiarise themselves with the FAI Disciplinary Regulations relating to betting as set out in the FAI Governance Handbook and to reach out to the FAI for additional information if they wish.

Rainey thanked Finn Harps and the PFA Ireland "for the support they have shown to me over this difficult period."