England walked off the pitch during an Under-15 World Cup match on Monday after a Republic of Ireland player was accused of a racist slur, and the game was abandoned.
It happened in Azerbaijan, shortly before the end of the match. After an altercation between players from both sides, an England player went to his bench and complained to the coaching staff.
Footage then showed England staff passing the complaint on to the referee, alleging that a racist slur had been said, and calling their players off. Republic of Ireland were leading 4-1 at the time.
Fifa told BBC Sport it is investigating and gathering reports.
England walked off the pitch during a match at the Under-15 World Cup after an allegation of racism by a Republic of Ireland player, which resulted in the game being abandoned.
World governing body Fifa told BBC Sport it is investigating and gathering reports. https://t.co/P0vLGG99dr
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) October 26, 2026
“Fifa is aware of an incident at the U-15 World Cup and Festival match between England and the Republic of Ireland,” a spokesperson said.
“The match was abandoned by the referee following England’s refusal to continue.
“The official reports are being gathered, and the matter will be referred to the independent disciplinary committee, who will decide in due course.”
The Football Association has sent correspondence to the Football Association of Ireland for comment.
