UEFA’s Upcoming Vote: Could Israel Face Suspension from European Soccer?

GENEVA (AP) — UEFA, the governing body of European soccer, is considering suspending Israel from its competitions due to the ongoing war in Gaza. Sources suggest that a majority of UEFA’s executive committee may support this move, which could keep Israeli teams out of international events, including next year’s World Cup qualifiers against Norway and Italy.

The relationship between FIFA, the global soccer governing body, and influential political figures, like former President Donald Trump, complicates matters. The Trump administration has been a crucial ally for FIFA, especially in securing support for next year’s World Cup, which will take place in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. A State Department spokesperson has indicated that efforts to exclude Israel from the World Cup will be opposed.

Calls to suspend Israel from international sports have grown louder, particularly following the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Last week, Spain’s Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, argued that Israel should face consequences similar to those imposed on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Seven UN Human Rights experts have also urged FIFA and UEFA to act.

The sentiment within UEFA appears to be shifting. Last month, notable banners condemning violence were displayed during the Super Cup match in Italy. This comes as Israel faces mounting scrutiny over its military actions, launched after a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. Allegations of severe human rights abuses, including accusations of genocide, have intensified criticism against Israel.

Israeli leaders, including the Sports and Culture Minister, Miki Zohar, are reportedly working hard behind the scenes to prevent suspension by UEFA. They are advocating for moderation and professionalism in handling these sensitive discussions.

In contrast to the situation with Russia, where many UEFA federations refused to play, no European teams have yet publicly declined to compete against Israeli clubs. However, soccer leaders in Norway and Italy have voiced concerns. The Norwegian soccer federation has pledged to donate profits from a forthcoming match to aid humanitarian efforts in Gaza.

The dynamic is further complicated by political tensions in the region, especially following an airstrike in Qatar. This situation has even spilled into soccer culture, with displays at recent matches advocating for peace and protesting violence, such as banners displayed by PSG fans during the Champions League final.

As discussions progress, the implications for international soccer—and for Israel’s place within it—are significant. The UEFA council is set to meet soon, and the decisions they make will resonate beyond the soccer field, reflecting the intricate connections between sports, politics, and global human rights concerns.

For further updates on soccer-related news, you can visit the AP’s dedicated sports section here.

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