Saipian

Event information

On the eve of the 2002 FIFA World Cup, the Irish captain Roy Keane forfeits his place in the squad at the team's preparation base in Saipan, following a heated disagreement with the Irish manager Mick McCarthy

The real-life drama behind star player Roy Keane’s rift with manager Mick McCarthy on the eve of the 2002 World Cup, Saipan is a story of ego, loyalty, and identity that resonates beyond the world of sports.

In this taut, character-driven drama, Steve Coogan delivers a riveting turn as McCarthy, opposite a formidable performance from Éanna Hardwicke as Keane. Rather than rehashing familiar headlines, directors Glenn Leyburn and Lisa Barros D’Sa bring audiences into the back rooms, offering intimate portrayals of two proud men with clashing leadership styles, deep loyalty to their team, and differing visions of Ireland’s sporting identity.

In January 2026, the film received 12 nominations at the Irish Film & Television Awards, including for best film and best director, with Coogan and Hardwicke both nominated for best lead actor. Hardwicke eventually won best lead actor.