Ireland and England will face each other at the Aviva Stadium this weekend. Due to the historical, political, and social relationship between the two countries, tensions can rise, as seen back in 1995 during the Lansdowne Road riots.
Chants referencing World War II casualties, disdain for the Pope, and the IRA have been sung by large groups at international tournaments in the past.
A statement on the FA's website states fans will be removed from the Aviva for a number of reasons if they don't behave
"As always, when travelling abroad, we ask that members treat the cities and locals with respect. Any unacceptable behaviour while following England may result in:
- Removal from the stadium
- Police involvement and possible criminal proceedings
- Football Banning Order applications in England
- Suspension from the ESTC membership
- Withdrawal of future match tickets
"We will not tolerate any excessive behaviour and will be working with all relevant stakeholders to ensure every fan has a safe trip. Any member who does not follow the ESTC membership rules outlined will risk losing their membership privileges and tickets for future fixtures, including the UEFA EUROs.
BERLIN - England fans during the UEFA EURO 2024 Final match between Spain and England at the Olympiastadion on July 14, 2024 in Berlin, Germany. ANP | Hollandse Hoogte | GERRIT VAN COLOGNE (Photo by ANP via Getty Images)"Remember, members should act as ambassadors for the England team and behave in a way that continues to enhance the image of English supporters and the national side.
"We hope you enjoy the game and have a safe journey!"
Superintendent Gareth Parkin also said via The Telegraph that they have been in contact with Gardaí and the FA about the event:
“Following on from the Euros in Germany, we’re once again expecting that the vast majority of England fans attending the match in Dublin will behave responsibly.
“Thousands of UK residents and sports fans visit Dublin every year, and the Gardaí and the stadium management team are well used to dealing with large-scale events at the Aviva.
“Ahead of the match, we’ve been in constant dialogue with our colleagues at the Gardaí, and a security visit has already taken place. We will have teams from the UKFPU on the ground throughout the weekend to assist our colleagues.”
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris also stated that he and his team will be alert to any form of hooliganism if it arises in Dublin this weekend. However, he expects the majority of attendees to be Irish fans travelling to and from the stadium.
“We’re aware of all the various public order threats that may arise,” said Harris to The Belfast Telegraph.
“This operation covers the arrival of England fans and the maintenance of order in the city centre and at the football match.
“At the Aviva Stadium itself, the vast majority of fans will be Irish. Part of our operation is to ensure all fans can travel to and from the match safely, and those in the stadium can watch the game free from the threat of public disorder or attack.”
Ireland's game on Saturday starts at 5 p.m.
