June 12, 2026
The Republic of Ireland is to play its upcoming Nations League game against Israel at a neutral venue behind closed doors, the Football Association of Ireland said on Friday, after protests by players and fans over the death toll of Palestinian civilians during the invasion in Gaza.
Ireland had been set to host Israel at Dublin's Aviva Stadium on Oct 4, while a Sept 27 fixture designated as an Israel home match is also expected to be staged at a neutral venue.
But Irish footballers, fans and celebrities launched a campaign calling for a boycott of the game.
"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 in a statement.
