FAI announce official decision for Ireland v Israel venue

BREAKING

Originally, the match was scheduled to take place on the 4th of October, in the Aviva Stadium.

After a meeting on Thursday, the decision has been made to move the fixture abroad and place the controversial match behind closed doors.

In an FAI official statement, they have confirmed that UEFA have accepted their request.

The official statement reads: "The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) confirms that UEFA has approved a request to host the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League fixture between Ireland and Israel on 4 October overseas, in a neutral venue and behind closed doors.

"Following consultation with various stakeholders, the Association is of the view that operational challenges could impact on the delivery of the game on home-soil, so the fixture will be played away from the Aviva Stadium."

"The Association understands and respects the views expressed by players and staff, supporters, its members, campaigners, members of the public and the Irish footballing community in relation to this fixture."

The statement also reveals that the FAI have been in contact with the Palestinian FA: “The Palestinian Football Association expresses its appreciation for the principled positions taken by the Football Association of Ireland in support of the rights of the Palestinian people and Palestinian athletes.

"The Palestinian Football Association also affirms its respect for the decision made by the Football Association of Ireland within the framework of its sporting and international obligations, in a manner that enables it to continue fulfilling its noble mission of serving football and promoting the values of justice, solidarity, and mutual respect.”

"The Association is deeply conscious of the suffering and devastation being endured by civilians in Gaza and continues to reflect the sentiment of the motion that was proposed and voted in favour of by members of the FAI General Assembly in November 2025.

"This motion was to issue a formal request to the UEFA Executive Committee for the immediate suspension of the Israel Football Association from UEFA competitions for a breach of UEFA statutes.