Courell replaces Hill as new FAI chief executive

David Courell previously held senior roles across Olympic and Paralympic sport

David Courell has been appointed as the new chief executive of the Football Association of Ireland.

The Castlebar man held the post on an interim basis after Jonathan Hill left in April following controversy over a payment in lieu of holidays not taken, which was against FAI staff rules.

Courell, who joined the organisation as chief operating officer in 2022, was named permanently on Friday after an "extensive recruitment process and has been unanimously ratified by the board of the FAI".

"It is an honour to assume the position 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," he 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."

Courell is the FAI's second chief executive since the departure of John Delaney in 2019.

"While there is a lot to do, we also have a lot to celebrate and 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."