Uefa approves FAI request to play ​Ireland-Israel fixture overseas in neutral venue

THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION of Ireland has said Uefa has approved a request to move Ireland’s home Nations League match against Israel to a neutral venue overseas.  

The FAI announced the decision in a statement this morning, saying the match will also be played behind closed doors. 

The Republic of Ireland’s men’s soccer team is due to face Israel in the Nations League at a neutral venue on 27 September before a return game in Dublin’s Aviva Stadium on 4 October.

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However, there has been a growing ‘Stop the Game’ campaign in recent weeks calling for the fixtures not to go ahead. 

“The Football Association of Ireland confirms that UEFA has approved a request to host the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League fixture between Ireland and Israel on October 4th overseas, in a neutral venue and behind closed doors,” the FAI said. 

“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 FAI thanked An Garda Síochana “for their support and advice over recent months” and said the decision to relocate to a neutral venue is one “that has been considered an appropriate course of action by the FAI Board with the support of UEFA”.

“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.”

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Two motions tabled by Sinn Féin and the Social Democrats this week calling for games not to go ahead and for the government to support this were rejected, as a government counter-motion saying it was matter for the FAI to decide was passed. 

Speaking on Tuesday, activists from the campaign said that moving the game outside of Ireland simply removes the right of fans to protest.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated.

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