During Austria's Nations League away match against Ireland, the seats along the pitch at Aviva Stadium in Dublin will remain empty. This is according to a report by the "Irish Times".
According to the report, the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has relocated hundreds of fans who had tickets for the first two rows in the stadium to the premium section, at no additional cost.
Specifically, ticket holders for the first two rows in the South, East, and West stands are said to be affected by the relocation. Ticket holders were informed of the change via email on Wednesday. There was no prior contact with the fans, not even through the "Irish Football Supporters Partnership".
Fears of match abandonment
The FAI informed the "Irish Times" that the Nations League encounter between Ireland and Austria serves as a test run for hosting matches at EURO 2028.
During the Euros, the first two rows of seats are not to be used. This allows for larger LED advertising hoardings to be installed.
However, within FAI circles, there are fears that Ireland's match against Austria could be disrupted by protests and potentially abandoned due to prolonged interruptions. Blocking off the first two rows in the stadium would make it easier for security forces to intervene in the event of any pitch invasions.
Protest with tennis balls
In May, Ireland's test match against Qatar took place at Aviva Stadium and was disrupted by protests against the upcoming international fixtures with Israel. Tennis balls with Palestinian flags were thrown onto the pitch.
