Irish politicians call for football boycott of Israel matches

Irish politicians and activists are calling for a boycott of sporting events held in Israel, citing concerns over human rights and Palestinian treatment. Dublin West TD Ruth Coppinger has specifically urged the Irish football team to refuse to play an upcoming Nations League fixture against Israel, scheduled for September 27, 2026.

Coppinger’s calls follow a cultural movement where several artists withdrew from a high-profile music tour in solidarity with political stances regarding Palestine. The 'Stop The Game' campaign has gained support from various Irish cultural figures, including KNEECAP and Christy Moore, amid protests in Dublin.

While the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) intends to proceed with the match to avoid disqualification, FIFA has announced that the fixture will take place at a neutral venue in Serbia rather than at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.