Some football moments live on not because of silverware, but because of the chaos around them. Saipan is one of those moments - and now it’s hitting cinemas in a way that’s funny, sharp, and incredibly watchable.

From the creators of the box-office hit Kneecap, Saipan revisits the infamous fallout between Republic of Ireland captain Roy Keane and manager Mick McCarthy during Ireland’s build-up to the 2002 FIFA World Cup. It’s the story football fans still argue about decades later - and this time, it’s told with humour, perspective, and a whole lot of personality.

What’s the Film About?

Set at Ireland’s World Cup training base in Saipan, the film zooms in on the argument that saw Roy Keane walk away from the squad just days before the tournament. What starts as a disagreement about standards and preparation quickly becomes a clash of personalities that takes over headlines, divides fans, and becomes part of football folklore.

Steve Coogan stars as Mick McCarthy, with Éanna Hardwicke taking on the role of Roy Keane. The result? A witty, fast-moving retelling that balances tension with laughs and makes one of football’s most talked-about moments surprisingly accessible.

And no, you don’t need to know every detail of Irish football history to enjoy it. As The Guardian puts it: "★★★★ - entertaining, sharp, and very watchable".

Why You’ll Enjoy It

Saipan isn’t about tactics or match highlights. It’s about football culture: the personalities, the stubbornness, the egos, and the moments that spark endless debate in pubs, group chats, and comment sections.

If you love football stories, sporting controversies, or just well-made films with strong performances and smart humour, this one’s worth your time.

Win Free Tickets 🎟️

To celebrate the release, we’re giving away 20 double passes to see Saipan in cinemas.

📽 In cinemas from February 5th - watch the trailer here.

📍Enter the giveaway here.

👥 Bring a mate, settle the argument, enjoy the ride.

Keep an eye on our channels for entry details.