David Courell confirmed as new permanent CEO of FAI

David Courell is the new Chief Executive of the FAI, replacing Jonathan Hill who left the position following a pay controversy.

The FAI's board voted on Thursday to approve the appointment of Courell as the association's permanent CEO.

He will be the second person to take the permanent position since John Delaney's departure in 2019.

Courell has been interim-CEO since April after Hill's departure. The FAI announced at its AGM that it had agreed on a confidential settlement with the departed Hill.

Castlebar man Courell has been with the FAI since February 2022 as Chief Operating Officer.

Courell faced competition from Swim Ireland CEO, Sarah Keane, and Munster Rugby CEO Ian Flanagan, who previously worked with Leicester City Football Club.

"It is an honour to assume the position of CEO of the FAI on a permanent basis. Ireland has a rich footballing history, and the game continues to play a significant role in Irish society engaging more than 400,000 people every year," Courell said.

"In saying that I came home two years ago as I felt that Irish football had huge unrealised potential and that I could play my part in unlocking it. In working with the brilliant staff we have at the association and through embedding myself in the Irish football community that belief has only strengthened.

"While there is a lot to do, we also have a lot to celebrate ad build upon. I look forward to working with our Chair, President and the Board, General Assembly, staff, partners and our wider community to guide the Association into the future and I thank the Board of the FAI for their ongoing support."