Two investigations have been launched into a video showing members of the Republic of Ireland women's team singing along to a pro-IRA song following their World Cup play-off win over Scotland.
Ireland secured a first ever major tournament place following a 1-0 victory over the Scots at Hampden Park in Glasgow on Tuesday evening. But controversy arose after footage emerged of members of the team singing along to the Wolfe Tones' 'Celtic Symphony', which includes a pro-IRA reference, in the dressing room following the victory.
The FAI and manager Vera Pauw quickly apologised for the incident following backlash against the video. However UEFA and Police Scotland have now confirmed they have both launched investigations into the incident.
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In a statement released today, European football's governing body said: "In accordance with Article 31(4) of the UEFA disciplinary regulations, a UEFA ethics and disciplinary inspector will investigate potential inappropriate behaviour by players of the Republic of Ireland Women’s team in the aftermath of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers play-off second leg match played against Scotland on October 11, 2022. Information on this matter will be made available in due course."
Police Scotland also confirmed they are investigating the video. A spokesman for the force said: "We are aware of the video and enquiries into the incident are ongoing."
The FAI apologised yesterday after the footage emerged. In a statement released yesterday, they said: "The Football Association of Ireland and the Republic of Ireland Ireland Women’s National Team Manager Vera Pauw apologise for any offence caused by a song sung by players in the Ireland dressing room after the FIFA Women's World Cup Qualifying Play-off win over Scotland at Hampden Park on Tuesday night."
Manager Pauw added: “We apologise from the bottom of our hearts to anyone who has been offended by the content of the post-match celebrations after we had just qualified for the World Cup. We will review this with the players and remind them of their responsibilities in this regard.
"I have spoken with players this morning and we are sorry collectively for any hurt caused, there can be no excuse for that.”
Read next:
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- Sky Sports presenter slammed for interview question after Ireland song controversy
- Irish team sing Taylor Swift song in heart-warming video after World Cup qualification
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