Finn Harps’ Ryan Rainey
Ryan Rainey has opened up on his addiction to gambling after being hit with a six-month ban from all football related activity due to a breach of FAI betting regulations.
In a statement released this morning, the FAI said that Rainey – who has not been retained by Finn Harps after spending the last four seasons with the club – was charged for bets on a number of League of Ireland and FAI Cup games between 2021 and 2024 and also placed a ‘significant number of bets on football worldwide in 2024.’
Tighter rules that have been rolled out globally prevent footballers from betting on matches in any jurisdiction. In a statement released through the players union PFA Ireland, Rainey asserted that he didn’t wager on any games that he was involved in.
“My name is Ryan Rainey and I have a gambling addiction,” he said.
“I am also a young man who grew up wanting nothing more than to play football. I realised my dream but then reality struck. The constant stream of gambling adverts, the spare time and desire for stimulation while watching matches on television meant I developed an addiction which overtook common sense and led me down a path I now sincerely regret.
“While I fully acknowledge that I broke the FAl’s rules on betting on any matches, I stress that I did not bet on a match in which I was involved. I fully respect the integrity of the game and would not involve myself in any action that would threaten that. However, I also realise that the betting rules are in place for a reason and that I breached them. That is on me and I accept full responsibility.
“I also accept the ban I have received and will not be appealing it. My intention is to seek treatment for my addiction and to return to football after my suspension as a better person and player.
“I hope that my experience assists in reform of gambling advertising which targets young men like me and is doing huge damage. Finally, I would like to thank Finn Harps and the PFA Ireland for the support they have shown to me over this difficult period.”
Rainey was officially sanctioned by an independent disciplinary committee appointed by the FAI to consider his case.
In their statement, the Abbotstown authorities urged all individuals involved in football to familiarise themselves with the regulations laid down in their rulebooks.