Fifa has ordered the Republic of Ireland's upcoming World Cup qualifier against Georgia to be moved to a neutral venue, following the recent conflict between the Georgians and Russia. Ireland were due to travel to the Georgian capital Tbilisi for their first Group Eight qualifier on September 6.
Tbilisi was bombed by Russian forces during the fighting which has left hundreds of civilians dead. A ceasefire is now in place, although Russian forces remain on the ground in Georgia. The Georgian Football Federation has the right to nominate the new venue for the match, and must present their decision to Fifa within the next seven days.
Georgia also face home qualifiers against Italy, Bulgaria, Cyprus and Montenegro. Their next match in Tbilisi is scheduled for October 11 against Cyprus, followed by Bulgaria on October 15.
