The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) have confirmed that no punishment will be issued to 11-year-old Addison Whelan after she invaded the pitch following the Republic of Ireland's goalless draw with Portugal.
After entering the field of play, she approached Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo before departing the Arriva Stadium with the 36-year-old's coveted jersey.
Stephen Kenny's side kept Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes and co. at bay as they were forced to settle for a point and finished the game a man light after veteran defender Pepe was sent off in the second half.
The result took Fernando Santos' side above Serbia in the hunt for Qatar 2022 World Cup qualification but only on goal difference ahead of their crunch match next week.
An emotional Whelan sprinted to the five-time Ballon d'Or winner before being confronted by stewards before the United man instructed they stood down.
Initial reports suggested that a fine would be issued to the Shelbourne U13s girls team player but FAI's Media and Football Relations Director, Cathan Dervan dismissed those claims.
She said in a statement: “We want to reassure Addison that of course she will not face any fine for running onto the pitch and asking for Ronaldo’s jersey.
“On a serious note, we would remind fans at all games that fines are liable to be levied by Uefa in certain instances for entering the field of play, particularly when the game is ongoing, and we urge all fans to respect this very sensible rule.”
Addison admitted that her "dream" was finally coming true meeting the former Real Madrid and Juventus player, telling RTE's Morning Ireland: “I sprinted onto the pitch but there were security guards running behind me and another two coming from the other corner. I was just sprinting and screaming Ronaldo’s name.
“He turned around and he saw me. He was telling [the stewards] to leave me, so he came over to me and I was in shock. I was crying. I was like, ‘can I have your jersey, please? I’m a huge fan’, and he was saying ‘are you okay?’ and everything.
“I was thinking: oh my God, this is it, this is my dream and it’s finally coming true.”
Months earlier, Ronaldo denied Ireland a famous win after scoring two late headers to earn Portugal the three points and confirming the 36-year-old as the most prolific goalscorer in international men's football.
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