EA Sports apologises for FIFA anthem gaffe
FIFA 2008 mistakenly plays the "Soldiers Song" for Northern Ireland team
EA Sports has apologised for mistakenly including the "Soldiers Song" as the anthem for Northern Ireland in its FIFA 2008 game.
According to a report in the regional Londonderry Sentinel newspaper, fans reacted with shock and surprise, prompting the apology.
"At EA Sports, we pride ourselves on delivering rich and authentic videogame experiences," said EA's Shaun White. "We sincerely apologise for this error."
"Any apology on this matter is most welcome," remarked Sports Minister Gregory Campbell.
"Obviously there's has been a lack of knowledge on the makers' part and hopefully it will be changed as soon as possible."
This is apparently not the first time that a similar gaffe has been made, either. According to the newspaper, last November the BBC also apologised for referring to the Northern Ireland national anthem as "A Soldiers Song" on its Ceefax subtitle service prior to a game.