Northern Ireland fans are set to receive the Medal of the City of Paris for their “exemplary behaviour” during Euro 2016.
Michael O’Neill’s side were eliminated in the second round by Wales but their supporters left a lasting impression on the city of Paris and the tournament at large.
The Mayor of Paris, Madame Anne Hidalgo, will present the honour to the Amalgamation of Official Northern Ireland Supporters’ Clubs and the Irish Football Association before Thursday’s semi-final showdown between France and Germany.
In a letter to Northern Ireland First Minister Arlene Foster, Madame Hidalgo said: “From the beginning of the Euro 2016 football tournament, in all the cities concerned in France and particularly in Paris, your supporters displayed exemplary behaviour.
“All Parisians, French people and all our foreign visitors who came to attend matches or simply to visit our city were charmed and impressed by their kindness, their chants and their good humour.
“While the practice of international football is, unfortunately, sometimes marred by rudeness, excesses or even violence, Northern Ireland supporters showed us all, to our great benefit, what supporting a country and a sport truly means.
“For all these reasons, on behalf of all Parisians and as a mark of respect and gratitude I have decided to award the Medal of the City of Paris to those citizens of Northern Ireland who came to support their team in our capital.”
Irish Football Association chief executive, Patrick Nelson, who will be attending the presentation ceremony, said: “This award for our fans is thoroughly deserved.
“The Green and White Army have, of course, provided remarkable support for the Northern Ireland team home and away for many years, but they were exceptional in France.
“I am delighted their exemplary sportsmanship, which showed Northern Ireland in a very positive light, has been recognised in this way by the Mayor of Paris.”
