Republic of Ireland fans are arranging a tribute to Northern Ireland football fan, Darren Rodgers.
Darren died in a tragic accident in France yesterday, while over as part of the travelling support for Northern Ireland. He fell over a barrier from a promenade in the south coast city of Nice.
Fellow Northern Ireland fans are planning a tribute during the side’s next game on Thursday, but Republic of Ireland fans have also decided to pay their respects.
Republic of Ireland fans planning a minutes applause in memory of the young NI fan that passed away in Nice. Fans in solidarity. #COYBIGAWA
— C MacNeachtain (@MooseBrah) June 13, 2016
In a show of solidarity with our neighbouring team, supporters intend to have a minute of applause in honour of Darren in the 24/25th minute of this evening’s game between Ireland and Sweden.
A social media campaign has started to make everyone attending the match aware of the plan.
#NIR fans are planning a minutes applause in the 24th minute of Thursdays game against #UKR in memory of #NIR fan Darren Rodgers #GAWA 💚⚽️🇬🇧
— Lest we forget (@1690OrangeLily) June 13, 2016
Rep of Ireland fans are planning a minutes applause in the 24th minute of today's Ireland v Sweden game in memory of NI fan Darren Rodgers
— Barry Whyte (@BarryWhyte85) June 13, 2016
FAI President Tony FItzgerald said today: “Our hearts go out to all of our friends in the Irish Football Association and to all Northern Ireland supporters following this terrible tragedy.
“I would like to express our sincerest condolences on behalf of myself and the board of the FAI.”
John Delaney, FAI CEO, said that it was a terrible day for football and a tragic day for the young man’s family.
“This should be a wonderful day for football and for all football supporters at the UEFA EURO 2016 tournament – instead it is a day of deep sadness for everyone associated with football,” he said.
“I want to extend my deepest sympathies, and those of everyone at the FAI, to the family and friends of Mr Rodgers.”
