UEFA Make Position on Banning Israel From Football Clear in New Statement
UEFA has reportedly provided an updated stance on whether it will ban Israel from competing in its competitions.
During the conflict between Israel and Palestine, there had been calls for European football’s governing body to ban the Israel national team and Israeli club sides from taking part in UEFA competitions.
Many suggest a precedent was set with the 2022 banning of Russia and Russian clubs from competing under the body's banner.
While Russia and Russian clubs remain banned from competing in UEFA competitions due to the ongoing conflict involving the nation and Ukraine, Israel and Israeli clubs have still taken part in UEFA competitions such as the Europa League and World Cup qualifiers.
Advert
Several football associations – such as the Turkish and Norwegian governing bodies - have contacted UEFA about the situation with the FAI – the Republic of Ireland’s football association – passing a motion of 74/7 at an EGM in November of 2025 to request that UEFA ban Israeli international and club teams from all of its European competitions.
A report from the Irish Examiner says a resolution passed focused on two violations of two provisions of UEFA Status: failure to implement and enforce an effective anti-racism policy, and the playing by Israeli clubs in the occupied Palestinian territory without the consent of the Palestinian FA.
Republic of Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrímsson had also publicly spoken about why Israel was still allowed to play despite UEFA and FIFA’s quick response to banning Russia three years earlier.
Despite a UN Commission of Inquiry stating that Israel had committed genocide, both UEFA and FIFA have failed to sanction the nation.
On Monday (January 5), FAI President Paul Cooke issued an update on UEFA’s response, which reiterated that matches will not take place on Israeli soil under their governance, while little update was given on a potential ban or suspension.
Cooke’s email to the general assembly read: “UEFA acknowledged receipt (November 27), subsequently responded by letter (December 16).
“In that response, UEFA confirmed that the matter has been duly noted, they also referred to an earlier decision of the Uefa Executive Committee of October 19 such that no Uefa competition matches shall be played on the territory of Israel until further notice, citing safety and security considerations.
“Uefa have also stated that the situation continues to be closely monitored on an ongoing basis.
“In relation to the question of suspension or exclusion of member associations, Uefa referred to the existing provisions of its Statutes, specifically Article 9 (suspension) and Article 8 paragraph 3 (exclusion), noting that these articles provide the legal and procedural framework for such decisions, which are considered on a case-by-case basis.
“Uefa also reaffirmed its commitment to fairness, integrity and equal treatment across all member associations.
“Members will be kept informed should there be any further engagement or developments with Uefa.”
Luke Davies