By David Gold
March 6 – The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has agreed a bonus deal with the national team squad for this summer’s European Championships in Poland and Ukraine – the first major international tournament the Republic of Ireland will have competed at since the 2002 World Cup.
The bonus pot for Euro 2012 is smaller than that for the World Cup ten years’ ago, due to the difficult economic situation, with reports suggesting it could amount to €2 million (£1.67 million/$2.63 million).
The FAI can expect to make a minimum of €8 million (£6.7 million/$10.6 million) in prize money from qualifying for and participating in the continental showpiece.
In a statement, the FAI confirmed the agreement and said: “During the discussions, the players emphasised the immense honour and pride which they feel in representing the country through this and previous campaigns.
“The players thanked the FAI for their professionalism and preparations which are made around the international squad.
“In recognition of the wider economic climate, the players were happy to agree to a reduction in qualification payments made in 2002.
“On behalf of all strands of the sport, the FAI thanks the players for their readiness to accept a reduction and for their determination to avoid the use of external agents during direct talks which were conducted in an atmosphere of trust and mutual understanding.”
The Irish have been handed a tough draw this summer and will face European and world champions Spain, 2006 World Cup winners Italy and Croatia in Group C of the 16 team tournament.
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