Irish FA backs social media boycott The Irish Football Association will be joining several other football organisations in switching off social media activity this weekend. The boycott - it runs from 3pm tomorrow (Friday 30 April) until 11.59pm on Monday (3 May) - is aimed at raising awareness of ongoing online racist abuse directed towards players and officials. In keeping with its Football for All ethos, the association believes no-one should be subjected to any form of abuse on social media platforms. Irish FA chief executive Patrick Nelson said: “The Irish FA condemns racism and sectarianism in all its forms. The association has worked tirelessly to promote respect across the game – and the essential value of football as a sport open to all.