Ireland Football Team to Protest Israel Match with Black Armbands

The Republic of Ireland's national football team will wear black armbands and forgo pre-match rituals like handshakes and a joint photo with Israel during their upcoming match on Sunday, according to Irish Football Association President David Connellan. These actions are intended as a protest related to the ongoing conflict.

Connellan stated that the players requested to be excused from media obligations during this international window, explaining why no players attended the pre-match press conference. He confirmed that the team will also not participate in certain pre-game ceremonies, specifically mentioning the absence of handshakes, flag exchanges, or a team photo with the Israeli delegation.

Furthermore, the Irish team plans to donate their match fees from both the upcoming game against Israel and their subsequent match against Austria to a humanitarian charity supporting Palestinians. Reports indicate that each player receives approximately 2,000 euros per match from the association.

The match is scheduled for Sunday at 21:45, following two postponements. Connellan also mentioned that the association would approve further protests planned for Sunday, contingent on the players' wishes.