Irish FA issue positive fan update ahead of Georgia trip after 'constructive dialogue with UEFA'
The Irish FA have confirmed that Northern Ireland supporters who booked travel and accommodation before the announcement that their Nations League clash in Georgia is to be played behind closed doors will now be able to attend the match.
Northern Ireland are set to begin their League B campaign with a trip to Georgia on September 25, but last month UEFA revealed that the fixture would be played without fans in attendance.
The Georgian FA were hit with sanctions after multiple breaches of UEFA regulations and crowd disorder in a game against Armenia last year.
It came as a major blow to a number of Northern Ireland supporters who had already made arrangements following the draw while IFA CEO Patrick Nelson described the development as “naturally disappointing”.
However, in a positive update provided from the association, those who had already booked flights and accommodation will now be permitted into the stadium to support Michael O’Neill’s side.
"We recognise the commitment and loyalty shown by those fans who had already made plans to travel and support the team,” said Nelson. “We are also mindful of the disappointment some supporters will feel at not being able to attend due to the restrictions in place and the unique circumstances surrounding this fixture, and we thank them for their patience, understanding and continued support.”
A further statement from the Irish FA read: “Following constructive dialogue with UEFA, the Irish FA can confirm that Northern Ireland supporters who had already booked travel and accommodation before the announcement that the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixture away to Georgia would be played behind closed doors will now be permitted to attend the match.
“Supporters who are able to demonstrate that their travel arrangements were made before the stadium closure was confirmed will be issued tickets for the game.
"These tickets will be allocated from the Category 1 allocation made available to the Irish FA under UEFA regulations. The association will contact the affected supporters directly to confirm the necessary ticketing arrangements.”
Northern Ireland have also been drawn against Hungary and Ukraine after gaining League B promotion following their successful campaign in 2024.