Neutral Venues Chosen for Israel‑Republic of Ireland Matches Amid Rising Protests

Hungary has been selected as a viable venue for Israel’s fixtures, owing to its stronger diplomatic relations with Israel compared with many other European countries and its readiness to supply the policing and security needed for smooth match operations.

In the summer, the Football Association of Ireland opted to stage its home match against Israel at a neutral location, citing operational challenges that could jeopardize hosting the game on Irish soil.

Reports suggest the FAI feared that protests might disrupt the match if it were held in Dublin.

Although the FAI did not provide an official explanation for picking Backa Topola, selecting a remote Serbian town is believed to simplify security arrangements and lower the risk of protests.

In 2025, Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Đurić referred to Israel as one of Serbia’s closest friends and strategic partners, noting that Serbia has acquired drones, missiles and other military equipment from Israel in recent years.

Opting for neutral venues has not quelled the opposition.

Supporters of several Irish clubs have protested the matches during domestic games in recent weeks, and on Monday over 160 Irish athletes signed an open letter from the Irish Sport for Palestine group calling for a boycott. Among the signatories are boxer Tyrone McKenna and former European champion Ciara Mageean.

FAI chief executive David Courrell noted last week that UEFA had turned down a request to keep the teams apart in future draws, while football director John Martin called the fixtures a “very uncomfortable situation for everyone.” Manager Heimir Hallgrímsson added that playing the match does not amount to legitimizing Israel’s alleged genocide.

“We’re not playing alongside genocide; we’re playing against it,” Hallgrímsson said. “We’re playing against Israel, not with Israel.”

In response, the Israel Football Association accused Hallgrímsson of ignorance, hypocrisy and stupidity.

The Republic of Ireland previously met Israel in the Women’s EuroBasket qualifiers last autumn and earlier this year following extensive deliberations.

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