Motorsport star Jack Kennedy
Irish motorcyclist Jack Kennedy has launched an online attack on Ryanair, claiming the airline forced him to pay extra to take a racing trophy on board.
The Dunshauglin resident travelled to the UK last weekend for the Bennets British Superbike Championship at Thruxton, where he competed with his Mar-Train Racing Yamaha team.
Jack was “excited” after becoming the championship leader on Sunday and taking the top spot on the event podium.
After his victory, he shared a photo on Instagram of himself holding up the trophy and explaining how he got into the flow during the race.
“I gritted my teeth and kept going until I had to make an overtaking move on the last lap for the win, which was a big gamble,” he wrote.
“Yesterday second and today a first and now the leader in the championship, buzzing. Thanks for the support everyone”.
But things went wrong when Jack started his return journey to Ireland.
The 36-year-old complained on social media that he was charged £75 (€87.52) to take his trophy on board his Ryanair flight from Birmingham to Dublin.
“Well done @Ryanair for charging me £75 to take my trophy I won in the UK and travel home to Ireland FR667. What an absolute joke!” he said.
Some social media users pointed out that the airline has a baggage policy and that while passengers are allowed to bring additional items on board, they should be aware that they will have to pay a fee for doing so.
According to the website, Ryanair may charge optional fees for bicycles, large sports equipment, sports equipment, ski equipment, golf clubs and musical instruments, ranging from €35 to €70.
The costs are charged per piece or per single journey and may not weigh more than 20 kg. Bicycles may weigh a maximum of 30 kg.
Ryanair has been contacted for comment.