FAI and Shamrock Rovers condemn alleged racist incident at Oriel Park

[ad_1]

The FAI and Shamrock Rovers today condemned the alleged incident of racist abuse at Oriel Park last night.

A Dundalk supporter was involved in a verbal exchange with some Shamrock Rovers players as they left the pitch following the FAI Cup clash.

Rovers released a statement today saying racial slurs were made towards their defender Roberto Lopes.

“Shamrock Rovers FC condemn the racist remarks made to our player Roberto Lopes following our Cup draw against Dundalk,” it read.

“The incident happened off the field as the team prepared to leave Oriel Park.

“We understand that the individual concerned has been identified and we support Dundalk FC in taking the necessary action against this individual.

“We salute and thank Dundalk FC for their swift action on this.”

Dundalk had released his own statement last night shortly after the incident and confirmed he had identified the supporter involved.

Video footage has emerged online showing Lopes shouting at a Dundalk fan, who allegedly racially abused the Cape Verdean international.

In the video, Lopes can be heard saying, “I don’t mind the stick, but don’t racially abuse me.”

Today the FAI said it condemns all forms of racism ‘in the strongest possible terms’ and pledged to take action where necessary.

The association’s statement read: “The FAI and the League of Ireland are in contact with the clubs and will support any action taken by Dundalk FC against any supporter found guilty of racially abusing a Shamrock Rovers player.

“The FAI will take further action if necessary. We reiterate again that the FAI and the League of Ireland operate a zero tolerance policy against abuse by any player, manager, match official, club official or supporter.

[ad_2]