The Irish and Israeli national teams will not exchange jerseys after their Nations League matches, according to reports. The head coaches of both teams are also expected to forgo the traditional pre-match handshake.
The decision comes amid heightened tensions related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which has led to protests and calls for boycotts in Ireland and elsewhere. The first match between the two sides is scheduled to take place in Hungary, a neutral venue chosen for the fixture.
Neither the Football Association of Ireland nor the Israel Football Association has issued an official statement confirming the arrangements. The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has not commented on the matter.
The matches are part of the 2024–25 UEFA Nations League. Further details, including the exact date and location of the second match, have not been confirmed.
