FAI suspend all football activity until March 29 due to coronavirus

The FAI has cancelled all football activity in Ireland with immediate effect until March 29.

It follows emergency talks with the Department of Health and UEFA this afternoon in the wake of the Covid 19 pandemic.

All League of Ireland games due to be played over the next two-and-a-half weeks are postponed with the league in shutdown.

An FAI statement read: “The FAI made this decision after a meeting in Dublin today with Government, the Department of Health and stakeholders from other national sporting bodies.

“The decision has been taken in light of the growing threat posed by the COVID-19 outbreak and in the best interests of our players, coaches, volunteers, supporters and staff.

“This decision will be monitored on an ongoing basis.”

The statement added: The FAI again met with representatives from the National League Executive Committee and the Professional Footballer’s Association of Ireland today, and continues to work with both bodies to help our clubs and players through this difficult time.

“The FAI remains in communication with the Department of Health and UEFA on COVID-19 and will continue to follow all government guidelines.”