The campaigners cite the Gaza genocide and a worsening humanitarian crisis in the Strip.
Several prominent figures in Irish football, including League of Ireland captains and former internationals, have called on the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) to boycott upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against "Israel", citing the ongoing genocide in Gaza and a worsening humanitarian crisis in the Strip, Irish Independent reported.
The appeal forms part of a newly launched campaign titled “Stop The Game,” led by the Irish Sport for Palestine group. The initiative urges the FAI to refuse participation in two scheduled fixtures against "Israel" later this year, with matches set for September 27 at a neutral venue and October 4 at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium.
Among those supporting the open letter are Shamrock Rovers captain Roberto Lopes, Bohemians skipper Dawson Devoy, Waterford captain Pádraig Amond, St Patrick’s Athletic captain Joe Redmond, and Shelbourne forward Seán Boyd. Former Ireland manager Brian Kerr and ex-international Louise Quinn, as well as Christy Moore, Fontaines D.C., and Kneecap have also endorsed the call.
Professional Footballers’ Association of Ireland (PFA Ireland) chair Roberto Lopes issued a statement alongside the open letter, urging the FAI to prioritise humanitarian concerns over sporting commitments.
“We have to stop the game. As players and fans, our natural instinct is always to get out there and compete, but this is a moment where we need to look at the bigger picture,” Lopes said. (more...)
Irish 'Stop The Game' campaign urges FAI boycott 'Israel' UEFA matches
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