Ireland to fulfil fixtures against Israel after taking legal advice

The Republic of Ireland will fulfil their Nations League fixtures against Israel after taking legal advice, the Football Association of Ireland has confirmed.

Heimir Hallgrimsson’s men and the Israelis have been drawn, along with Austria and Kosovo, in Group B3, sparking calls for the national team to withdraw from the fixtures with the FAI having approved a motion – which was rejected – in November last year calling for Israel to be banned from UEFA competitions because of the war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The association said earlier this month that the two games would go ahead and has since confirmed in a letter to members that legal experts have backed that stance.

The letter reads: “After taking legal advice, engaging with key stakeholders and reflecting on our constitutional obligations, we have decided that the Football Association of Ireland will fulfil both fixtures and will host the home match at the Aviva Stadium as scheduled.

“We understand that this decision will be difficult for many members and supporters. It has not been taken lightly.

“As a member association of UEFA, we are bound by its regulations. Our Constitution requires us to adhere to UEFA’s rules, including the obligation to fulfil scheduled international fixtures and to avoid actions that would constitute undue political interference.

“From a footballing perspective, a decision not to play would have serious consequences. It would result in the forfeiture of six points, could lead to relegation to League C of the Nations League and would damage our seeding for EURO 2028 qualification as well as our overall FIFA ranking.

“Such outcomes would materially harm the long-term sporting interests of Irish football.”

Former Ireland boss Brian Kerr