Hallgrímsson urges UEFA to spare Irlanda from Israel clash over Palestina

Irish manager Heimir Hallgrímsson has asked UEFA not to schedule another encounter with Israel, citing Irlanda’s strong support for Palestina, even as his side prepares to travel to Debrecen, Hungary for the Nations League fixture on Sunday after a recent draw with the Czech Republic.

Political stance and UEFA request

Hallgrímsson told reporters that the decision does not lie with the team but with UEFA, adding, “No, no should not. It is not up to us to decide; UEFA decides. Obviously, in Irlanda there is great support for Palestina. Few countries back Palestina as much as Irlanda.”

He warned that no nation should endure what his players have experienced in the past two weeks, urging UEFA to intervene, “I would not wish any side to go through what we have lived, so perhaps UEFA should act.”

Team reaction and wider fallout

The internal debate intensified when backup goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu left the squad, after players spent hours voting on whether to face Israel.

Hallgrímsson also faced an accusation of racism from an Israeli journalist; he issued an apology but maintained his position on the issue.

The conflict in the Oriente has sparked a wave of statements across the Futbol world, with many insisting that football is more than a sport – it is political.

The story first appeared on MEXSPORT, was listed as a preferred source on Google, and was highlighted by the Spanish Medio as a key development.

Hallgrímsson’s résumé includes a stint with Jamaica, underscoring his experience in diverse football environments.

Irlanda’s match against Israel in Debrecen was delayed by more than five hours after the press conference and training session were pushed back, as players continued to discuss the decision in their hotel.