Drogheda United co-chairperson Joanna Byrne has refused to resign despite being instructed to do so by the club's American owners, Trivela Group. The group cited a breakdown in trust after Byrne publicly discussed private conversations with ownership, though they emphasized the decision was not based on her political views.

The controversy stems from Byrne's comments about Israel, where she expressed opposition to an Ireland v Israel match as Sinn Fein's sports spokesperson. The Trivela Group's statement indicated that governance concerns raised during earlier discussions contributed to their decision. Byrne described the statement as 'deeply emotive' but said she was 'not surprised' by the development.

Byrne maintains her stance, stating she will not resign and plans to consider her options moving forward. The situation has already drawn support from Drogheda's principal sponsor, Sullivan and Lambe, which issued a statement backing Byrne and indicated it would 'actively review' its sponsorship position. The American ownership group now faces a potential standoff with one of the club's most prominent figures.