Overview
- The Stop the Game coalition launched an open letter Wednesday, signed by League of Ireland captains and figures such as former manager Brian Kerr and ex-women’s star Louise Quinn, urging the FAI to refuse two Nations League ties with Israel.
- Sinn Féin endorsed the boycott on Thursday, with MEP Lynn Boylan unveiling fan scarves to oppose the fixtures and urging the FAI to do the right thing.
- Former Ireland winger James McClean backed the campaign the same day, saying the games should never be going ahead and criticizing the FAI’s backbone.
- The FAI says it will fulfill the fixtures after legal advice, warning that refusing to play could mean a forfeit and further discipline, including possible disqualification from the competition.
- Ireland are scheduled to face Israel on 27 September at a neutral venue for Israel’s home match and on 4 October at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, while a supporters’ poll reported 76% opposition to the games.