The FAI has this afternoon issued its backing to UEFA in postponing EURO 2020 due to the coronavirus outbreak. 

UEFA today announced its decision to postpone the tournament this afternoon having consulted national associations, as well as other stakeholders.

The agreement to postpone, they say, will help countries complete their domestic schedule once activity resumes after Covid-19.

There was no definitive date for the Republic of Ireland's play-off semi-final against Slovakia. However, the FAI say that there are tentative plans for the qualifier to take place between June 1st and June 9th of this year.

Speaking today, FAI Interim CEO Gary Owens said it was the right decision to move the tournament.

“UEFA has made the right decision today in the interests of the health and well-being of football players, fans and staff alike," Owens said.

“We support this decision and we look forward to working with all our stakeholders on reorganising UEFA EURO 2021 for Dublin next year. We would like to thank all our partners – the Government, Dublin City Council, Aviva Stadium and all the agencies and partners who have worked really well with us on the UEFA EURO 2020 project for the last few years.

“We have agreed with these partners that we will now begin to plan together for the four UEFA EURO 2021 games here next year which will be the Centenary year of the FAI.”

Gerry McAnaney, the FAI President, also acknowledged that the decision was taken with the best interests of the wider public at heart.

He said: “The health of the community is of paramount importance to the FAI so we support this decision by UEFA today.

“The most important thing now is for football to work together during this pandemic. I appeal to our players, supporters and staff to look out for each other and to follow the HSE guidelines at all times.

“Irish football will return and we have much to look forward to now in the coming months and in welcoming Europe to Dublin in our Centenary year of 2021.”