CYRUS CHRISTIE HAS spoken out for the first time about racist comments directed at him in the wake of Ireland’s World Cup play-off defeat.
The defender was left deeply upset after being subjected to abuse on social media — where he was told to “go and play for Jamaica” and threatened about being “lynched”.
Tonight, the player himself has released a statement, in which he praises the majority of fans before insisting that those involved in the abuse do no represent them.
“Firstly, I’d like to say I am extremely proud to represent my country, the Republic of Ireland, and give everything I can each time I put on the green shirt,” Christie wrote on Twitter tonight.
I genuinely believe our fans are some of the best in the world.
“However, there have been a number of racist comments, which have been brought to my attention during the World Cup qualifying campaign over the last couple of months and, most recently, last week.
“These comments are not representative of our fans or our sport. We were all deeply upset to not reach the World Cup finals and are hurting just as much as everyone else.
“It is deeply saddening that racism is still part of the game we all enjoy and love. I strongly believe we need to stand up against these individuals who do not belong in football or any other sport.”
The42 has just published its first book, Behind The Lines, a collection of some of the year’s best sports stories. Pick up your copy in Eason’s, or order it here today (€10):
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'It's deeply saddening that racism is still part of the game we all enjoy and love' - Christie
CYRUS CHRISTIE HAS spoken out for the first time about racist comments directed at him in the wake of Ireland’s World Cup play-off defeat.
The defender was left deeply upset after being subjected to abuse on social media — where he was told to “go and play for Jamaica” and threatened about being “lynched”.
The Gardaí are looking into the matter evening and, this evening, the FAI, the PFAI and Show Racism the Red Card have come out to show their support to Christie along with a large number of Ireland supporters.
Tonight, the player himself has released a statement, in which he praises the majority of fans before insisting that those involved in the abuse do no represent them.
“Firstly, I’d like to say I am extremely proud to represent my country, the Republic of Ireland, and give everything I can each time I put on the green shirt,” Christie wrote on Twitter tonight.
“However, there have been a number of racist comments, which have been brought to my attention during the World Cup qualifying campaign over the last couple of months and, most recently, last week.
“These comments are not representative of our fans or our sport. We were all deeply upset to not reach the World Cup finals and are hurting just as much as everyone else.
“It is deeply saddening that racism is still part of the game we all enjoy and love. I strongly believe we need to stand up against these individuals who do not belong in football or any other sport.”
The42 has just published its first book, Behind The Lines, a collection of some of the year’s best sports stories. Pick up your copy in Eason’s, or order it here today (€10):
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COYBIG Cyrus Christie Kick it out One of our own Racism Respect Speaking out Ireland Republic