England Under-15s walk off pitch at World Cup after alleged racist abuse by Ireland player

FIFA are investigating an allegation of racist abuse that led to the abandonment of England’s Under-15 World Cup match against the Republic of Ireland in Azerbaijan on Monday, with the incident set to be referred to an independent disciplinary committee.

The alleged abuse, directed at an England player and attributed to a Republic of Ireland player, came to light in the final minute of the match, with Ireland leading 4-1. An England player was seen approaching the touchline to inform his coaching staff, who then brought the complaint to the referee’s attention.

England head coach Matt Thorpe called the referee over before instructing his players to leave the field. Thorpe was reportedly told by the official that he “could not hear” the alleged abuse. One of his assistant coaches was then heard telling the referee “we are reporting racism” and “we do not want to play.” It was subsequently reported that a player was left “upset” by the incident.

A heated exchange reportedly followed between the two coaching teams as both sides sought to protect their players.

FIFA confirmed the abandonment in a statement issued after the match. “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.”

Neither the Football Association nor the Football Association of Ireland had issued a statement at the time of reporting.