The FAI disciplinary committee has handed Dundalk goalkeeper George Shelvey a 10-match ban.
Dundalk say their goalkeeper George Shelvey “regrets” his use of discriminatory language after being handed a 10-match ban by the FAI.
The former Nottingham Forest player was sent off at the final whistle in Monday's derby defeat to Drogheda United and faced an automatic one-match ban.
But an FAI disciplinary committee today confirmed that Shelvey would be banned for 10 matches for “abuse towards a match official in breach of the FAI rules on racism/discrimination”.
It is believed Shelvey used the phrase “Irish c***” when addressing a match official.
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Dundalk and Shelvey have accepted their sentences and there will be no appeal.
“Following a process concluded by the Independent Disciplinary Control Unit, Dundalk FC can confirm that George Shelvey has been suspended for ten matches for using discriminatory language towards the referee at the end of the match with Drogheda United on May 6,” said Dundalk F.C. a statement today.
“The player attended today's Independent Disciplinary Control Unit hearing where he explained that he deeply regrets the language he used against the referee.
“Although George quickly realized that he had used inappropriate language, he initially did not understand the discriminatory aspect of his words.
“However, having discussed the matter with club officials, he now fully accepts that his words were not only offensive but also discriminatory.
“Both George and the club accept the sanction imposed by the Independent Disciplinary Review Unit and will not appeal. Going forward, Dundalk FC will work with George to develop his understanding of these issues.”
Players have been banned for similar offenses linked to racist abuse in recent years, but a 10-match ban is believed to be the longest ban handed down by the FAI.
Dundalk leave for in-form Waterford on Friday and now have to plan without Shelvey until July.