FAI respond to Limerick FC statement

THE Football Association of Ireland have responded to a Limerick FC statement which criticised the national body's refusal to sanction a high-profile friendly between the Super Blues and FC Barcelona on Saturday, July 31 next.


Limerick FC, led by chairman Pat O'Sullivan, arrived at an agreement this week with the Spanish giants which would see the Airtricity League club take on FC Barcelona, featuring marquee names such as Lionel Messi, at Thomond Park.
The FAI however refused to sanction the game which could have benefited the local economy to the tune of €10 million.
The FAI released a statement on Thursday evening (May 13) stating: “As the FAI has already told Limerick FC, their request for authorisation to confirm to FC Barcelona that they would be able to play in Ireland on July 31, was refused because of third party commercial agreements which prevent the Association from doing so.
“In addition, the FAI has also told Limerick FC that it is in active and ongoing negotiations with FC Barcelona in relation to a visit to the Aviva Stadium.
“Thirdly, the association told Limerick FC that it was obliged to retain ownership of the July 31 date because of Airtricity League fixtures.
“Although the timing of Limerick FC’s proposal means this request cannot be granted, the FAI has already given permission to Limerick FC for a match it applied for involving Sunderland in Thomond Park on July 13”.

Brian McDonnell