FAI Chief John Delaney from says the payment was to prevent the Association from taking legal action after Thierry Henry's stopped Ireland from qualifying for the 2010 World Cup.
The world’s media has honed in on the Tipp town mans admission that the FAI took the money from FIFA.
It brings a uniquely Irish angle to the relentless pressure on football’s governing body over the corruption scandal.
The payment came after Thierry Henry’s infamous handball knocked Ireland out of the World Cup playoff against France in 2009.
Republic of Ireland’s current assistant manager Roy Keane says he’s not getting dragged into the controversy.
The FAI says the money was paid to prevent legal action, and that it was legitimate and a good deal – and FIFA says it was intended as a “loan” toward construction of the Aviva Stadium.
However the Daily Telegraphs Chief Football Correspondent Henry Winter says it’s hush money and a betrayal of Irish fans.
Pressure is now mounting on John Delaney and the FAI to fully disclose where the money went – and why it isn’t clearly marked on the Association’s accounts.
FIFA’s Former Vice President Jim Boyce says he’s astounded by the ridiculous payment – and wants a full investigation.
