The Republic of Ireland's Nations League fixture with Israel on October 4 will be held behind closed doors at a neutral venue overseas, the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) announced on Friday.
Israel played their World Cup qualifiers in Hungary and are set to use a neutral venue. (AP)
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
The FAI said that European football governing body UEFA had approved its request to hold the fixture abroad.
Several pro-Palestinian Irish politicians and football figures have urged the federation to withdraw from the ties -- there is also an away game in September -- over Israel's conduct during the war in Gaza.
Last month, home fans disrupted Ireland's friendly with World Cup participants Qatar in Dublin by throwing tennis balls onto the pitch in protest against the games with Israel.
That demonstration led to renewed concerns about whether a game against Israel at Dublin's Aviva Stadium could go ahead safely.
"Following consultation with various stakeholders, the Association is of the view that operational challenges could impact on the delivery of the game on home soil, so the fixture will be played away from the Aviva Stadium," the FAI said.
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
{{^usCountry}}
The FAI statement also said that it is "deeply conscious of the suffering and devastation being endured by civilians in Gaza."
{{/usCountry}}
{{#usCountry}}
The FAI statement also said that it is "deeply conscious of the suffering and devastation being endured by civilians in Gaza."
{{/usCountry}}
The FAI passed a motion in November requesting that UEFA immediately suspend Israel from international competition, but received no support from European football chiefs.
Irish football bosses have since maintained that they have little choice but to play the games or risk forfeiting them and incurring other disciplinary measures "including potential disqualification from the competition".
The FAI said that forfeiting six points from their two matches against Israel could lead to relegation to League C in the Nations League and so weaken the national side's ability to qualify for Euro 2028.
Turning to other potential impacts of a boycott, the FAI said: "Beyond the sporting implications, there would be broader consequences for Irish football, such as reduced capacity to support clubs and leagues through critical services such as safeguarding, educational programmes, and player development opportunities."
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
Israel played their World Cup qualifiers in Hungary and are set to use a neutral venue for their Nations League match against Ireland on September 27.
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results.
A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.
Stay updated with the latest sports news, including latest headlines and updates from the Olympics 2024, where Indian athletes will compete for glory in Paris. Catch all the action from tennis Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favourite football teams and players with the latest match results, and get the latest on international hockey tournaments and series.
Stay updated with the latest sports news, including latest headlines and updates from the Olympics 2024, where Indian athletes will compete for glory in Paris. Catch all the action from tennis Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favourite football teams and players with the latest match results, and get the latest on international hockey tournaments and series.
Home/Sports/Others/Ireland-Israel football fixture to be played at neutral venue
{{^htLoading}}
Advertisement
{{/htLoading}}
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
{{#usCountry}}{{/usCountry}}
Hindustantimes wants to start sending you push notifications. Click allow to subscribe
