20 July 2014; Dundalk supporters wave flags at the end of the game. SSE Airtricity League Premier Division, Dundalk v Athlone Town, Oriel Park, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Picture credit: David Maher / SPORTSFILE

Dundalk have been hit with a staggering €18k fine following their Europa League qualifier against Hajduk Split when a Palestine flag was flown at Oriel Park.

A source today confirmed to Independent.ie that the club had received notice of the fine from UEFA last Wednesday, and stated that they will decide whether to appeal or not when they receive a full judgement from UEFA.

The UEFA match delegate in Oriel on July 17 had asked the club to have the flag removed before kick off with the game in danger of being delayed if this did not happen.

But during the game, the flag reappeared and UEFA have deemed this a breach of their rules.

It's understood that the Palestine flag is deemed political by UEFA because the conflict in the region is ongoing.

Dundalk issued a statement, saying: "Dundalk FC can confirm that the club has been charged by the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Committee.

"These charges relate to Article 16 (2) of the Disciplinary Rules (relating to flags that have been deemed by UEFA to be inappropriate) and Article 45 UEFA Stadium Infrastructure (relating to the prohibition of standing supporters).

"The total fine is €18,000 for these charges.

"Dundalk FC have requested further information from UEFA on these charges before beginning any appeals process.

"Dundalk FC will be making no further comment on this issue until it is fully resolved."

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