Irish footballers and celebrities urge boycott of Israel matches
Summary
Irish football players and celebrities have asked the Republic of Ireland to boycott a football match against Israel because of concerns about Israel’s actions in Gaza. The campaign argues that playing matches in occupied Palestinian areas goes against football rules, but the Irish government and football officials have said the games should continue.Key Facts
- Irish footballers and celebrities signed an open letter to urge a boycott of Ireland’s match against Israel.
- The letter accuses Israel of committing genocide in Gaza and breaking UEFA and FIFA rules by playing on occupied land.
- In a 2025 vote, 93% of Football Association of Ireland (FAI) members asked leaders to push UEFA to suspend Israel.
- Ireland is scheduled to play Israel in Dublin on October 4, with another match expected at a neutral location.
- The Irish Prime Minister supports holding the matches despite criticizing Israeli government policies.
- The FAI said not playing could hurt Ireland’s future in international football tournaments.
- A poll found 76% of Irish football fans are against playing the match with Israel.
- Israel has been part of UEFA football competitions since the early 1980s after leaving the Asian Football Confederation.
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