Ireland Player Accused of Racist Slur Against Israeli Soccer Player

During a Nations League match where Ireland defeated Israel 3-0, Irish player Jason Molumby allegedly called Israeli player Eliel Peretz a "monkey." Israeli team members claimed Molumby had been verbally abusive throughout the game. Molumby reportedly complained to the referees about alleged racist remarks directed at his teammate, Adam Idah, but the officials dismissed these claims, preventing disciplinary action against the Irish Football Association.

Molumby has a history of disciplinary issues. Earlier in the 2024-25 season, he received a five-game suspension and a £16,000 fine for striking an opponent in a friendly match. His former club, West Bromwich Albion, had an appeal against one of his red cards rejected. In the 2025-26 season, he was sent off twice within 18 minutes, contributing to his team's loss.

Molumby previously played alongside Israeli players Biram Kayal and Tomer Hemed at Brighton & Hove Albion early in his career. He played with Hemed in what was his senior debut. The defensive midfielder played 88 minutes in the recent match and is expected to start in the return leg.