The first trailer has been released for Saipan, a new film that revisits one of the most controversial chapters in Irish sporting history, Roy Keane’s dramatic departure from the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup squad in 2002.
Directed by Lisa Barros D’Sa and Glenn Leyburn (Ordinary Love, Good Vibrations), the film delves into the explosive fallout between Keane and then-manager Mick McCarthy, a dispute that shook the nation and left a lasting mark on Irish football.
Cork actor Éanna Hardwicke stars as the fiery Manchester United captain, while acclaimed actor Steve Coogan portrays McCarthy. The trailer, unveiled this morning, teases a high-stakes confrontation between the two, including a line from Keane’s character declaring: “You don’t ever tell me we’re done. I’m just getting started.”
The incident at the heart of the film occurred on the Pacific island of Saipan, where the Irish squad was training ahead of the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan and South Korea. Keane, increasingly disillusioned with the Football Association of Ireland’s (FAI) preparations, voiced concerns over the team’s facilities and organisation.
Tensions reached boiling point after Keane gave a searing media interview criticising the FAI. In response, McCarthy convened a team meeting, during which Keane allegedly unleashed a scathing personal attack, reportedly telling the manager: “I don’t rate you as a player, I don’t rate you as a manager, and I don’t rate you as a person.” He is also alleged to have added: “You can stick your World Cup up your a**e.”
Keane was subsequently dismissed from the squad and sent home, just days before the tournament began.
The incident divided the country. Supporters hailed Keane for demanding professionalism and refusing to accept mediocrity. Critics accused him of abandoning his team at a critical time. The fallout dominated headlines and talk shows, and became one of the most hotly debated episodes in Irish sport.
Produced by Wild Atlantic Pictures (Black 47, Evil Dead Rise) and Fine Point Films (No Stone Unturned, Kneecap), Saipan also features Alice Lowe (Sightseers), Jamie Beamish (Derry Girls), Alex Murphy (The Young Offenders), Harriet Cains (Bridgerton) and Peter McDonald (The Batman).
While a specific release date has not yet been announced, Saipan is expected to hit Irish cinemas this summer.
