European football’s governing body has stated that decisions regarding the separation of national teams during competition draws are determined individually, primarily through a lens of security. This clarification follows the Football Association of Ireland’s (FAI) disclosure that their formal request to avoid future pairings with Israel was denied.
FAI chief executive David Courell revealed on Friday that the organization had sought to keep Ireland and Israel apart following their pairing in the February Nations League draw. The two teams are currently scheduled to face off in that competition on September 27 and October 4. According to Courell, UEFA informed the FAI that such a separation was not feasible because the two nations have never been in direct conflict.
In a statement released on Saturday, UEFA emphasized its procedural approach: “Decisions to avoid certain teams being drawn against each other are made taking into consideration several factors, especially conditions between the two countries leading to structural risks for security.” The governing body added that it monitors all developments closely and handles every scenario based on its specific merits.
The Israel Football Association (IFA) challenged the narrative presented by the Irish side. IFA head of communications Shlomi Barzel questioned the existence of an official inquiry, telling reporters, “The question should be directed at UEFA: was there an official inquiry or request regarding this matter, or is this merely another inconsequential statement?” Barzel added that the IFA remains focused on professional preparations for upcoming matches rather than political discourse.
These fixtures have sparked significant controversy in Ireland due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Last November, FAI members voted heavily in favor of requesting that UEFA suspend the Israeli federation from European play. Furthermore, a campaign launched in May saw various Irish public figures and footballers call for a boycott of the matches.
Operational adjustments have already been made for the upcoming games. Ireland’s home match, originally slated for Dublin, will now be held behind closed doors on October 4 in Backa Topola, Serbia. Additionally, Irish supporters will not be issued tickets for Israel’s designated home fixture, which is set to take place in Debrecen, Hungary, the preceding weekend.
