Drogheda United is facing internal turmoil as co-chairperson Joanna Byrne has been asked to resign from her position following public statements concerning the Republic of Ireland’s upcoming Nations League fixtures against Israel.

Political Views and Club Pressure

The request for Byrne’s resignation came after she publicly stated that Ireland should not participate in the Nations League games against Israel, a position she articulated in her role as Sinn Fein’s spokesperson on sport. According to Byrne, she was informed by the Board of Directors that her role was no longer tenable and that she was expected to resign.

“On Monday morning, I was informed by the Board of Directors of Drogheda United Football Club that my role as Chairperson of the club was no longer tenable with an expectation that I would resign, something I have told them that I intend to resist.”

Joanna Byrne

Club Response and Concerns

Drogheda United acknowledged the situation, stating that at this time, no changes have been made to the club’s board. Yet, the club emphasized that the concerns raised with Byrne were not related to her political or moral views themselves. Instead, the board expressed concern over the open criticism of Uefa and the FAI, regulatory bodies to whom the club is subject, as well as each club official’s responsibility to respect the neutrality provisions of the Fifa code of ethics and the Uefa statutes. The club clarified that the substance of Ms Byrne’s views has never been attacked by the club or Trivela Group.

Byrne’s Stance and Background

Byrne has indicated she will resist calls for her resignation. She previously stated, Israel should not be in this competition. She also noted that Drogheda United delegates voted in November 2025 to support a motion for UEFA to ban Israel from European competitions.

Byrne emphasized her deep connection to the club, stating, Drogheda United has been part of my identity since childhood – standing on the terraces, travelling to away games, sharing victories and heartbreaks with family and neighbours. The club is woven into the fabric of my life and of our town.

FAQ

• What prompted the call for Joanna Byrne’s resignation? Her public statement calling for Ireland to not play Israel in the Nations League.
• What is Drogheda United’s official position? The club states no board changes have been made and concerns relate to criticism of UEFA and the FAI.
• Is Joanna Byrne planning to resign? No, she has stated she will resist calls for her resignation.