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FAI Reaffirms Plan to Play Israel as Members Weigh EGM and Police Flag Security Risks

Boycott calls now collide with UEFA rules that warn of forfeiture plus possible further sanctions.

Overview

  • Ireland were drawn with Israel, Austria and Kosovo in Nations League Group B3, with fixtures set for 27 September away and 4 October at home.
  • The FAI says it will fulfil the games, citing UEFA regulations that a refusal to play would forfeit the fixture and could trigger additional discipline.
  • Representatives from the FAI General Assembly have discussed calling an Extraordinary General Meeting to propose a boycott motion.
  • Senior Gardaí have raised concerns after initial talks with the FAI, warning the Dublin date during Ireland’s EU presidency could be problematic due to likely protests and resource demands.
  • Politics are split, with Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald urging a boycott while Taoiseach Micheál Martin and deputy premier Simon Harris back playing the matches.