FIFA statement after Ireland/England World Cup game abandoned after alleged racism

An alleged racist comment was made.

Ireland were leading 4-1 after 40 minutes in the eight-a-side game in Azerbaijan, when the England team walked off the pitch.

One of their players walked over to the sideline after an altercation between the both teams, and subsequently made the complaint to his coaches.

They then said to the referee: “We are reporting racism. We do not want to play”.

In response, a FIFA spokesperson said that the incident will be investigated by an independent committee.

They explained: “Fifa is aware of an incident at the Fifa U-15 World Cup & Festival match between England and the Republic of Ireland.

“The match was abandoned by the referee following England’s refusal to continue. The official reports are being gathered, and the matter will be referred to the independent Disciplinary Committee, who will decide in due course.”