Ireland urges UEFA to bar Israel from future draws

On 5 October 2026, Ireland announced it will no longer accept a Nations League or Euro‑qualifying draw against Israel, urging UEFA to intervene after a second fixture in Serbia sparked protests, a spitting incident and the Irish squad bowing their heads during the Israeli anthem.

Cold stadium, closed doors

The second encounter between Ireland and Israel in the Nations League was staged in Serbia, this time behind closed doors after the first leg in Hungary. The venue was described as a cold stadium, and no handshake followed the toss. The match was part of the Nations League schedule, which determines promotion and relegation among European sides.

Hallgrimsson demands action

During the Israeli national anthem the Irish players bowed their heads, reinforcing a clear statement of protest. An off‑camera Israeli player allegedly spat at an Irish staff member, which the Irish side called the proverbial last straw.

Ireland’s coach Heimir Hallgrimsson said he does not want any other national side to endure what his team has faced in the past two weeks. “I would not want another national team to have to go through what we have experienced over the past two weeks,” he said.

He also urged UEFA to intervene, suggesting the governing body should reassess Israel’s place in football. “Maybe UEFA should do something about this and intervene,” Hallgrimsson added.

Hallgrimsson’s request is that Ireland not be paired with Israel in future Euro‑qualifying or Nations League draws, aiming to avoid repeat incidents.

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Whether UEFA will act on Hallgrimsson’s appeal remains to be seen, leaving the Irish side uncertain about future draw arrangements.