A piece of Irish sporting history was celebrated in style at Áras an Uachtaráin as President Michael D. Higgins welcomed members of the legendary Republic of Ireland Italia ‘90 squad to mark the 35th anniversary of their World Cup heroics.
Fresh from their appearance on Friday night’s Late Late Show on RTÉ, fifteen members of the iconic team, including captain Mick McCarthy, Packie Bonner, Niall Quinn, Ray Houghton, and John Aldridge, were present at the special reception, with kitman Charlie O’Leary - who recently turned 101 - also in attendance.
In his address, President Higgins paid tribute to the team’s impact on the country, recalling the electrifying penalty shootout against Romania and the unforgettable homecoming in Dublin.
“Italia ‘90 was more than a tournament,” he said. “It was a moment of shared joy, of hope, and of national unity.”
He also honoured the late Jack Charlton, Maurice Setters, and Alan McLoughlin, noting their lasting contributions to Irish football. “Each of you gave us something invaluable,” he told the squad. “Memories of an unforgettable summer that continue to inspire new generations.”
The event provided a nostalgic look back at a golden era for Irish football, with President Higgins describing it as a time when “football brought our entire nation together”. See the Sportsfile gallery below for photos from the special occasion.
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