Limerick FC confirms Barcelona match is off
WITH news emerging that Limerick FC were lodging an objection to the FAI over the handling of the entire matter, FC Barcelona confirmed in writing that they would not be in a position to part-take in the proposed fixture on July 31 next with the Shannonside club due solely to the decision of Ireland’s governing body in soccer. A press statement issued by Limerick FC read as follows:
It is with regret that Limerick FC wishes to confirm that FC Barcelona have confirmed in writing to the club this evening that they are no longer in a position to keep open the agreed date of 31st July for the proposed friendly match in Thomond Park. Therefore the proposed friendly match between both clubs will not now go ahead despite the fact that a heads of agreement had been reached between both parties.
Limerick FC has been informed by FC Barcelona that the only reason that this match is not going ahead is the decision of the Airtricity League Director and the FAI not to sanction the proposed match. The initial decision of Airtricity League Director and the FAI was not changed despite an email request by FC Barcelona to FAI officials on the night of Monday 17th May that confirmed their desire to go ahead with the match with Limerick FC and stated their disagreement with the decision not to sanction the game. Due to FC Barcelona’s need to finalise their pre season plans for the upcoming season, they are now left with no choice but to seek an alternative friendly match for the date in question. Limerick FC respects FC Barcelona’s need to do this and hope they find a suitable alternative fixture.
Limerick FC would also like to thank FC Barcelona for the professional nature in which all negotiations were carried out and their support for Limerick FC’s attempts to get the necessary sanction from the FAI. Limerick FC would also like to thank its fans, its fellow Airtricity League Clubs and all the public who supported its call for sanctioning of the game. It is extremely disappointing that Limerick FC and FC Barcelona will now not meet in Thomond Park as a result of the decision by the Airtricity League Director and the FAI not to sanction the game. The loss to the region, both economically and in terms of improving the profile of soccer in the region, is enormous.
Limerick will continue to appeal the decision of the Airtricity League Director as a matter of principle as there is a need to fully clarify the position all Airtricity League Clubs now find themselves in with regard to the sanctioning of friendly games of this nature.
Limerick FC still hope that at some stage in the future it will be in a position to welcome FC Barcelona to the Mid-West Region and allow all sports lovers the opportunity to see some of the world’s greatest stars in person.
