Kumar Sangakkara Accuses Ryanair of Discrimination at Dublin Airport

Kumar Sangakkara, the former Sri Lankan cricket captain, has accused Ryanair staff of discriminatory behavior at Dublin Airport during his family's return flight. The incident, which occurred on October 28, has raised concerns about anti-Asian racism and the treatment of international travelers. Sangakkara shared his experience on social media, prompting discussions about the need for accountability from the airline. Tech entrepreneur Sanjiva Weerawarana also chimed in, sharing his own experiences with discrimination in the West. As the public awaits Ryanair's response, the incident highlights ongoing issues regarding passenger treatment at European airports.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 29, 2026, 14:03 IST

Kumar Sangakkara's Disturbing Experience at Dublin Airport

Kumar Sangakkara, the former captain of Sri Lanka's cricket team, recently made headlines after alleging that Ryanair staff at Dublin Airport exhibited discriminatory and threatening behavior towards him and his family on October 28.

Sangakkara, who is also the head coach of the Rajasthan Royals, was traveling with his wife Yehali and their twin children, Kavith and Swyree, to Dublin to celebrate his 49th birthday on October 27 before catching a flight back to Colombo.

However, the family's return journey was marred by what Sangakkara described as rude and hostile treatment from the airline's gate personnel, which he found unacceptable.

Sangakkara's Allegations of Discrimination

The former cricket star took to his official X account (formerly Twitter) to share his distressing experience, claiming that he and his family faced hostility and procedural mishaps from the airline staff.

He tweeted, "Has anyone experienced discriminatory gate personnel @Ryanair in Dublin? I, with my family, just did, and it was shocking."

Sangakkara further expressed his discontent, stating, "The tone of address and the mishandling of procedure and threatening behavior. Unacceptable for any passenger. First bad experience in Dublin."

Broader Implications of the Incident

This incident has sparked renewed discussions about discrimination in Ireland, particularly concerning anti-Asian racism and the treatment of international travelers at European airports.

Public figures and fans are urging Ryanair's management to investigate the matter thoroughly.

Response from Sri Lankan Tech Entrepreneur

Sanjiva Weerawarana, a tech entrepreneur from Sri Lanka, responded to Sangakkara's allegations, sharing his own experiences of discrimination while living and traveling in Western countries.

He tweeted, "Kumar, I have experienced discrimination in every part of the West. I lived there for 16 years, traveled back and forth for another 25, and now I'm done."

Sangakkara acknowledged Weerawarana's sentiments, stating, "It is quite jarring when you experience it, @sanjiva."

Awaiting Ryanair's Response

As of now, Ryanair has not publicly addressed Sangakkara's claims or provided an official statement regarding the incident.

It remains uncertain whether the airline will conduct an internal review of the staff's behavior or reach out to the cricket legend to resolve the issue.