Vertigo Releasing has dropped the much-anticipated first look teaser for Saipan, a gripping sports drama that delves into one of the most infamous and controversial incidents in football history — the fiery fallout between Republic of Ireland captain Roy Keane and national team manager Mick McCarthy ahead of the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Directed by Lisa Barros D’Sa and Glenn Leyburn (Good Vibrations, Ordinary Love), the film stars Éanna Hardwicke (The Sixth Commandment) as the intense and uncompromising Keane, with Steve Coogan taking on the role of McCarthy. The ensemble cast also includes Alice Lowe, Jamie Beamish, Alex Murphy, and Harriet Cains, promising a strong dramatic retelling of a real-life sporting saga that divided a nation.
The teaser hints at the psychological tension and high stakes behind closed doors — far from the stadium lights. Described as more than just a clash over training conditions or leadership style, Saipan explores the deeper emotional and ideological rift between two men whose values and egos collided in spectacular fashion. As the Irish squad prepared for the global stage, their captain’s unexpected departure from the team made headlines and ignited fierce public debate.
Penned by Paul Fraser, the screenplay aims to capture the nuance and fire of an event that transcended sport, becoming a cultural flashpoint in Irish history. With no official release date yet announced, Saipan already looks set to stir up emotions and reignite discussions about loyalty, leadership, and legacy in football.
Check Out The Teaser:-