Michael Hyland, the former President of the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) and long-serving figure in Irish football administration, has died. Age and cause of death have not been announced.
- Fast Facts
- Former FAI President who served during Jack Charlton’s era
- Chairman of the League of Ireland for seven years
- Led the construction of the Athletic Union League (AUL) Complex
- Represented the FAI on UEFA and FIFA committees
The Legacy
Michael Hyland was widely respected for his leadership across both grassroots and national levels of Irish football. Highlights of his career include:
- Serving as FAI President during Jack Charlton’s reign, a formative period for Irish international football.
- Chairing the League of Ireland for seven years, where he worked to strengthen the domestic game.
- Championing grassroots facilities — notably overseeing construction of the AUL Complex, a venue that has hosted underage, junior and intermediate finals and served as a training base for the national team.
Social proof: Reactions & Tributes
Current FAI President Paul Cooke led official condolences, saying: “On behalf of the Football Association of Ireland, I’d like to pay respect to our former President Michael Hyland and extend our sympathies to his family and friends following his passing. A dedicated football man, Michael’s contributions to Irish football helped to make a positive difference, particularly within the League of Ireland where he served as Chairman. He will be fondly remembered as a result. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”
Clubs, colleagues and figures across the Irish game have shared messages of sympathy and recollections of Hyland’s commitment to the sport’s development at every level — from local youth leagues to international committees. Shelbourne and other League of Ireland clubs have acknowledged the role the AUL Complex has played in nurturing talent.
Details on funeral arrangements and further tributes are expected to be announced by Hyland’s family or the FAI in the coming days.
Published: 30 Dec 2025 — Updated as more information becomes available.
Image Referance: https://www.thesun.ie/sport/16315269/fai-president-michael-hyland-dies-tribute-former/