Noa Kirel Faces Backlash Over Spain Jersey in World Cup Music Video

Israeli singer Noa Kirel and her partner, footballer Daniel Peretz, are facing unexpected criticism following the release of her new music video celebrating the 2026 World Cup. In the video, Kirel is seen wearing a light blue and white striped jersey symbolizing Argentina, while blocking penalty kicks from a player dressed in Spain's national team colors. This imagery sparked outrage in Spain due to ongoing diplomatic tensions between Spain and Israel, particularly regarding Spain's stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Spanish media and social media commentators accused Kirel of political provocation, interpreting the video as a metaphor for Israel's military actions in Gaza. Journalist Leila Hamed criticized the video on Twitter, linking it to Peretz's football career and calling it embarrassing. Other outlets described Kirel's performance as provocative and accused the video of serving as propaganda for a "failed state" committing atrocities.

The controversy highlights the intersection of sports, politics, and entertainment amid heightened sensitivities surrounding the Middle East conflict. Adidas, which sponsors the video, was also called out by critics. Meanwhile, Daniel Peretz, who recently completed a strong half-season with Southampton and is preparing for the next, remains indirectly involved in the dispute due to his relationship with Kirel.

The backlash underscores the complex diplomatic environment surrounding the World Cup and the broader Israeli-Palestinian tensions, with cultural expressions like music videos becoming focal points for political debate.