Ireland Moves Nations League Match Against Israel to Neutral Venue After UEFA Approval

The Football Association of Ireland said Friday that UEFA has approved its request to move the Nations League match against Israel, scheduled for October 4, away from Aviva Stadium in Dublin to a neutral venue, where it will be played behind closed doors.

In its statement, the Irish federation said the decision followed a series of talks and consultations and reflected concerns that operational difficulties could directly affect the ability to stage the match in Ireland. It also acknowledged the heavy political and public pressure inside Ireland against hosting the game, saying it respected the views expressed by players, staff, fans, and members of the Irish community.

The federation said it had also been in direct contact in recent months with the Palestinian Football Association, which it said had “expressed appreciation” for the Irish federation’s principles in support of Palestinian rights and athletes, and had recognized Ireland’s decision to act within its sporting and international obligations. The statement added that Ireland is aware of “the suffering and destruction being caused to civilians in Gaza,” and said it was continuing to reflect the spirit of a November 2025 general assembly resolution asking UEFA’s executive committee to suspend the Israeli federation over alleged rule violations.

Despite those positions, the Irish association said it is proceeding because it fears severe punishment from UEFA disciplinary bodies. It noted that under UEFA competition rules, refusing to play would mean forfeiture and possible additional sanctions, including expulsion from the tournament. The federation said Ireland will continue with all scheduled matches in Group B3, which also includes Austria and Kosovo, because any other decision would significantly affect Irish football as a whole.