James McClean Criticises FAI Over Ireland vs Israel Nations League Matches

Former James McClean has strongly criticized the Football Association of Ireland (FAI), accusing the governing body of lacking the “backbone” to cancel the Republic of Ireland’s upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Israel.

The former Irish international, who earned 103 caps during his career, said the matches scheduled for September 27 and October 4 should not go ahead due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza Strip.

McClean’s remarks came after pressure group Irish Sport for Palestine launched a campaign titled “Stop the Game,” urging Ireland to boycott the fixtures.

McClean Says FAI Lacks Courage

In a statement posted on Instagram, McClean said the decision should be taken out of the players’ hands and made directly by football authorities.

“The game should never be going ahead,” McClean wrote.

He added that Ireland, given its own history of colonization and political struggle, should be particularly sensitive to what he described as oppression.

“If there is one country that should recognize oppression and the turmoil that brings, it is Ireland,” he said.

McClean also expressed skepticism that the FAI would act, stating that in his view there is “not a backbone within the FAI.”

Brian Kerr and Other Prominent Figures Join Campaign

The boycott campaign has gained support from several well-known figures, including former Republic of Ireland manager Brian Kerr.

Other signatories include:

• Louise Quinn
• Hedvig Lindahl
• Paul Weller
• Bobby Gillespie
• Tom Morello
• Kneecap
• Fontaines D.C.

The open letter calls on the FAI to uphold UEFA and FIFA statutes by refusing to play against Israel.

Roberto Lopes Urges Ireland to “Stop the Game”

Roberto Lopes, chair of the Professional Footballers’ Association of Ireland and captain of Shamrock Rovers F.C., also endorsed the campaign.

“We have to stop the game,” Lopes said.

He acknowledged that athletes naturally want to compete but argued that humanitarian concerns must take precedence over sporting obligations.

“We cannot ignore the humanitarian catastrophe in Palestine,” he said. “Ireland has an opportunity here to lead.”

Why Campaigners Want the Matches Cancelled

Irish Sport for Palestine argues that Israel should be suspended from international football due to alleged breaches of UEFA rules and the broader conflict in Gaza.

Campaigners point to:

• Alleged failures to enforce anti-racism policies.
• Israeli clubs operating in settlements in the occupied West Bank.
• Accusations of apartheid and war crimes.

Israel has consistently denied allegations of genocide and says its military operations are acts of self-defense following the Hamas-led attacks of October 7, 2023.

FAI Previously Voted to Seek Israel’s Suspension

In November 2025, 93 percent of FAI members voted to instruct the association to request Israel’s suspension from UEFA.

However, in February 2026, the FAI confirmed Ireland would still fulfill the Nations League fixtures, citing the risk of severe disciplinary action if the team refused to play.

Potential consequences include:

• Match forfeiture.
• Financial penalties.
• Possible disqualification from the UEFA Nations League.

Humanitarian Context of the Conflict

The current war began after Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.

Israel’s military response in Gaza has caused massive destruction and, according to Gaza health authorities, more than 72,500 Palestinians have been killed.

The conflict has generated worldwide protests and increasing calls from athletes, artists and activists for sporting boycotts and sanctions.

Growing Pressure on Irish Football Authorities

The controversy has placed the FAI under mounting pressure from supporters, former players and public figures who believe Ireland should take a principled stand.

The issue has also reignited debate over whether sports organizations should remain neutral during major international conflicts.

While the FAI has not announced any change to its plans, the campaign is expected to intensify as the match dates approach.

What Happens Next?

Ireland is scheduled to face Israel in two UEFA Nations League matches:

• September 27, 2026
• October 4, 2026

Unless the FAI reverses course or UEFA intervenes, both fixtures are expected to proceed as planned.

For now, James McClean’s outspoken criticism has added significant momentum to a growing movement demanding that Ireland withdraw from the games.

Courtesy: BBC