Henry facing World Cup ban for Ireland handball
FRANCE striker Thierry Henry could be banned for the start of the World Cup after governing body Fifa opened a disciplinary investigation into his infamous handball against the Republic of Ireland.
The incident was discussed by Fifa at a specially-convened meeting yesterday in Cape Town, and although president Sepp Blatter insisted a ban was not certain to be imposed, it is thought likely Henry will receive a suspension of one or two matches.
“This is a matter of the disciplinary committee and it’s not a question of this player or another,” Blatter said. “It was blatant unfair play and was shown all around the world, but I don’t know what the outcome will be.” He added: “I have not said that Thierry Henry will be punished, I have said that Thierry Henry will be examined by the disciplinary committee of FIFA.”
Blatter attempted to calm the storm still raging over Henry’s handball, which set up William Gallas’s decisive goal in last month’s play-off, by apologising to Irish officials.
The Football Association of Ireland had earlier criticised Blatter for revealing their request, made during a private meeting last week, to be admitted to the finals as an extra, so-called 33rd, team.
“I regret what I created by what I said and I’m sorry about the headlines,” Blatter said. “The Irish were very sporting people when they came to see us. I’m very sorry about that.”