‘Completely untrue’: Ireland press conference halted after Israel racism allegations
Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson walked out of his pre-match press conference after an Israeli journalist accused his players of making racist remarks during last week's 3-0 Nations League victory . The extraordinary exchange erupted on the eve of the teams' rematch, which will be played in Serbia, with Football Association of Ireland officials forced to intervene as the reporter…
Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson abruptly ended his pre-match press conference after an Israeli journalist alleged that his players made racist remarks during their 3-0 Nations League victory against Israel last week. The journalist repeatedly demanded answers to the accusations, which have not been independently verified, while Hallgrimsson insisted they were "completely untrue."
Irish officials had to intervene to remove the microphone from the reporter, who refused to let go. Hallgrimsson later spoke privately with the Irish media. The tension surrounding the controversy arose amidst an already politically charged international window, with the match against Israel already drawing intense scrutiny and protests in Ireland.
Earlier in the press conference, Hallgrimsson addressed a separate incident involving a co-pilot threatening a pilot on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, which was forced to divert to Saudi Arabia. The UAE's attorney general confirmed the pilot attempted a terrorist act. However, Hallgrimsson stated that he did not want to engage in the dispute and that the authorities and UEFA would handle any allegations.
He emphasized that football should remain the focus once more. The Israel Football Association has not filed a complaint with UEFA but may do so after Sunday's rematch, scheduled for Serbia. The ongoing controversy adds to a tumultuous international window for Ireland, following England's dominant 7-0 Nations League victory over Croatia on Saturday.
Written by urgent.news from The National Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
