Ireland and Israel are scheduled to play two Nations League matches at neutral venues: first in Hungary, then in Serbia. FAI members voted 75–32 to play, saying a boycott could draw UEFA sanctions and harm Irish football; Irish fans cannot attend the matches.
Ireland's position on Palestine is central to the controversy: it formally recognized the State of Palestine in 2024, and some Irish officials, including head of government Micheál Martin, have accused Israel of genocide in occupied areas. More than 160 Irish athletes signed a letter urging the team to boycott. RTÉ says it is contractually required to broadcast the games, but will omit commentary, studio coverage and halftime analysis and take no advertising or sponsorship income.
UEFA rejected the FAI's request to keep the countries apart in future draws. Ireland's manager said the team was playing “against genocide”; Israel's football association responded with a social-media post insulting him. Most Irish players reportedly favored playing, but one unnamed player withdrew to avoid facing Israel; a team boycott or protests could still prevent the matches.
