Coronavirus: FAI ditch pre-match fair-play handshakes for League of Ireland matches

The Football Association of Ireland has said pre-match handshakes between both teams and officials will not take place until further notice because of fears over the spread of coronavirus.
By Simon Collins
Published 9th Mar 2020, 14:43 BST
Updated 9th Mar 2020, 14:44 BST
BANNED . . . Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers players shake hands prior to kick-off.BANNED . . . Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers players shake hands prior to kick-off.
BANNED . . . Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers players shake hands prior to kick-off.

The measure comes after recommendations made by the World Health Organisation to minimise potential transmission of COVID-19 and will be enforced ahead of Derry City's home clash with Sligo Rovers at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium this Friday night as well as all other League of Ireland fixtures.

A statement from the Association read: "The Football Association of Ireland has today issued a directive to all affiliates instructing them that players are not to shake hands with their opponents or match officials at all games under FAI jurisdiction.

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"The FAI decision, following on from a UEFA directive for their competitions, comes into effect immediately and will remain until further notice across all games in the Republic of Ireland.

"The FAI medical team remain in communication with the Department of Health and will follow all government recommendations regarding coronavirus."

Related topics:CoronavirusUEFAWorld Health OrganisationCovid-19