FAI says UEFA could have imposed 'undetermined' sanctions if Ireland refused Israel fixture
September 28, 2026 12:01
FAI president Paul Cooke has said the Republic of Ireland could have faced additional, unspecified sanctions from UEFA if they had refused to fulfil their Nations League fixture against Israel. The match went ahead and Ireland recorded a 3-0 win in Hungary.
Cooke told RTE Sport that "the rules are clear" about sanctions for not fulfilling fixtures and that there is a reference to other sanctions which are "undetermined." He added "I think it depends on Uefa and what sanctions they levy on somebody as a result of it."
PROTESTS AND DECISION TO PLAY
The build-up to the neutral-venue game was marked by protest and uncertainty. Ireland and Israel players did not shake hands, the Irish squad bowed their heads during the Israel anthem, and there was no exchange of pennants between Republic captain Dara O'Shea and Israel captain Manor Solomon.
There appeared to be real doubt on matchday after goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew from the game in protest and several other players expressed concerns about fielding. The FAI later confirmed a players' vote passed by a "significant majority" to play the fixture.
FAI POSITION AND UEFA RESPONSE
Cooke defended the association’s handling of the situation, saying the decision to play was mandated by the FAI membership and board and praising the players and manager Heimir Hallgrimsson for fulfilling the fixture. He also revealed the FAI sent a letter in November proposing Israel's expulsion from international and club competitions; Cooke said UEFA's response was that "they'd consider it and they're still considering it."
Cooke added he had spoken to the other teams in the Nations League group, Austria and Kosovo, who "reaffirmed their decisions to play the games."
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
The return fixture between the two nations is scheduled for 4 October in the Serbian town of Backa Topola.