Ireland-Israel Nations League fixtures proceed amid boycott calls
The FAI says playing protects Irish football’s interests as footballers, campaign groups and politicians urge it to withdraw over Israel’s war in Gaza.
Ireland and Israel are expected to play two UEFA Nations League matches despite growing calls in Ireland for a boycott over Israel’s war in Gaza. The fixtures are scheduled for 27 September in Debrecen, Hungary, and 4 October in Bačka Topola, Serbia, with the second match to be played behind closed doors.
The Football Association of Ireland says fulfilling the fixtures is necessary to protect Irish football’s interests, including avoiding possible sporting consequences. Those consequences remain unclear: UEFA has no fixed fine for forfeiting a Nations League match, while fines, point penalties or forfeiture may apply.
Opposition has come from footballers, campaign groups and politicians. The campaign group Irish Sport for Palestine has urged the FAI to withdraw, while Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has called on the association to tell players not to take the field. FAI members reportedly voted 93 per cent in 2024 to press its leadership to seek Israel’s suspension from UEFA.
Both fixtures are being held outside the teams’ countries. The October match was moved from Dublin to Serbia following protests and boycott calls. Israel has not hosted an international fixture since September 2023, after UEFA barred it from hosting matches over security concerns.
Irish broadcaster RTÉ plans stripped-back coverage, with no studio presentation, punditry, advertising or sponsorship around the matches. The teams are in Nations League Group B3 with Austria and Kosovo.
