LAST UPDATE | 24 Jul 2023

DUNDALK HAVE SAID they are investigating a “racist comment” alleged to have been made today after their FAI Cup match against Shamrock Rovers. 

The Louth club said in a statement that the comment was allegedly directed towards a Rovers player. 

The statement read: “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.” 

In a statement on Monday afternoon, Shamrock Rovers confirmed the player targeted was their centre-back Roberto Lopes. The club also thanked Dundalk for their action in identifying the alleged perpetrator. 

“Shamrock Rovers F.C. condemns the racist remarks made to our player Roberto Lopes following our Cup tie against Dundalk”, read the club’s statement. “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.” 

The Football Association of Ireland say they will support any action taken by Dundalk towards the supporter. 

“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”, read the Association’s statement. 

“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.”

Updated at 12.13 to include statements from Shamrock Rovers and the FAI 

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