The Football Association of Ireland has confirmed that Ireland’s UEFA Nations League fixture against Israel on October 4th, 2026, will be played at a neutral venue overseas and behind closed doors.
UEFA approved the FAI’s request to move the Group B3 clash away from the Aviva Stadium following what the association described as significant operational challenges associated with staging the game in Ireland.
In a statement, the FAI said the decision was reached following extensive consultation with stakeholders and with the support of UEFA. The association also thanked An Garda SÃochána for its advice and assistance throughout the process.
The fixture has attracted considerable public attention amid ongoing concerns surrounding the conflict in Gaza. The FAI acknowledged the strong views expressed by players, supporters, campaign groups, and members of the Irish football community.
The association reiterated its concern regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza and referenced a motion passed by members of the FAI General Assembly in November 2025, which called on UEFA to suspend the Israel Football Association from European competitions.
That motion was formally submitted to UEFA, and the FAI says it has engaged with European football authorities on the issue for almost two years.
However, the association stressed that UEFA regulations require participating nations to fulfil all scheduled fixtures. Failure to do so could result in forfeiture of matches, disciplinary sanctions, and potential disqualification from the competition.
Ireland were drawn alongside Austria, Israel, and Kosovo in Group B3 of the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League earlier this year.
The FAI warned that refusing to play the fixture could have serious sporting consequences, including the loss of six points, a potential relegation to League C, damage to Ireland’s FIFA and UEFA rankings, and a negative impact on future qualification prospects for major tournaments, including UEFA Euro 2028 and future FIFA World Cups.
The association also highlighted wider implications for Irish football, including reduced funding and support for grassroots programmes, player development initiatives, safeguarding services, and underage international teams.
In its statement, the FAI revealed that it has been in communication with the Palestinian Football Association, which expressed appreciation for Ireland’s support of Palestinian rights while also respecting the FAI’s decision to meet its international sporting obligations.
The FAI Board said its primary responsibility is to protect the long-term interests of football in Ireland and maintained that fulfilling all fixtures remains the best course of action for the sport.
The association also acknowledged the inconvenience caused to Season Ticket holders and Club Ireland members by the relocation of the fixture. It says supporters will receive further details regarding ticket arrangements and possible compensation measures once the venue and logistical details have been finalised.
The location of the neutral venue has yet to be announced.
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