Ireland Says FIFA Paid Them To Keep Quiet About A Blatant Handball

According to FAI CEO John Delaney, FIFA paid the Football Association of Ireland $7.1 million (at 2009 exchange rates) to avoid a lawsuit regarding the blatant handball by Thierry Henry during a 2009 World Cup playoff.

The latest piece in the FIFA corruption puzzle came into place during an interview between Delaney and RTÉ Radio 1, where Delaney stated the FAI and FIFA reached “a very legitimate agreement” in regards to the payoff that was made.

In case you didn't see the game, Thierry Henry clearly controlled a ball with his hand before setting up a teammate to score the winning goal on aggregate against Ireland.

France's victory meant they would advance to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa at the expense of their opponents.

After the game, Henry admitted it was a handball, but he said it was on the ref to make the call.

The FAI initially petitioned for the match to be replayed, but FIFA denied the request.

A few days later, according to Delaney, a deal was drafted and signed.

Next, we'll find out FIFA was behind JFK.

Citations: John Delaney Admits FIFA Paid Ireland Off Over the 2009 Henry Handball (Vice )