Irish Athletes Urge National Team to Boycott Games Against Israel

More than 160 Irish sports figures have signed an open letter calling on the Irish national football team to refuse to play upcoming matches against Israel. The letter, published by the group "Irish Sport for Palestine," urges players to "act with conscience" and "seize the moment." Among the signatories are prominent figures from Irish rugby, Olympic sports, former national football players, boxers, and Paralympian Alan Dineen and Ultimate Frisbee player Stephen Jones, both of whom have previously boycotted events involving Israelis.

The signatories argue that the Football Association of Ireland (FAI), UEFA, and the Irish government have "failed" the players by placing them in this situation. They contend that it is not too late for the FAI and the government to prevent the games from taking place, stating, "This is a significant moment, and you have an opportunity to do the right thing." The letter emphasizes that while representing Ireland is important, the Ireland they wish to see represented "remembers its roots in anti-colonial and anti-imperialist resistance."

This appeal comes shortly after FAI CEO Jonathan Hill reiterated the association's intention to proceed with the matches. Hill stated that the FAI does not wish to act unilaterally and is continuing to lobby UEFA to suspend Israel from international competitions. FAI director John Martin previously clarified that the decision to play was made by association officials, not the players, and that players should be protected from criticism.

The two matches between Israel and Ireland are scheduled for September 27 and October 4. Neither team will play in their home stadiums due to security concerns in Israel and fears of violent protests in Ireland. The games will instead be held in Hungary and Serbia.