Some NI fans to attend behind-closed-doors game
Northern Ireland were promoted to League B for the upcoming campaign
- Published
The Irish FA has confirmed that Northern Ireland supporters who booked their travel and accommodation for the Nations League game away to Georgia before the announcement that it will take place behind closed doors will be allowed to attend the game.
In February, it was confirmed that Northern Ireland's opening game in League B2 on 25 September would be played behind closed doors after the Georgian FA were hit with sanctions after multiple breaches of Uefa regulations and crowd disorder from a game against Armenia last year.
Uefa disciplinary regulations allow for up to 200 visiting supporters to attend a game if it is to be "played behind closed doors".
Article 73 (a) states that "a maximum of 200 people holding category 1 tickets from the visiting club or association" may be present at the match.
After it as confirmed that the fixture with Georgia would be played "behind closed doors", Northern Ireland fans spokesperson Gary McAllister said they were only informed of the issue by Football Supporters Europe and added a number of fans had booked flights to Georgia when the fixtures were released that morning.
On Wednesday the IFA said that following "constructive dialogue with Uefa" that those who had booked flights and accommodation in Georgia will be permitted to attend the game with valid proof of purchase.
"Supporters who were able to demonstrate that their arrangements were made before the stadium closure was confirmed will be issued tickets for the game," read an IFA statement.
"The association will contact the affected supporters directly to confirm the necessary ticketing arrangements."
Irish FA chief executive Patrick Nelson added: "We recognise the commitment and loyalty shown by those fans who had already made plans to travel and support the team.
"We are also mindful of the disappointment some supporters will feel at not being able to attend due to the restrictions in place and the unique circumstances surrounding this fixture and we thank them for their patience and understanding and the continued support shown."
