Neutral venues and no 'away' fans - how Israel v Republic of Ireland became so contentious
BBC Sport explores the backdrop to the Republic of Ireland's matches against Israel, amid fraught tensions between the nations.
A Euro football match between the Republic of Ireland and Israel will be played on neutral grounds in Hungary, with no away fans and limited TV coverage, due to controversy surrounding Israel's military actions in Gaza. The match, part of the UEFA Nations League, was initially met with opposition from fans, pundits, and politicians, leading to a vote that confirmed the fixture.
The Republic of Ireland will play the same opponents in a home match in Backa Topola, Serbia. No Irish fans will attend either fixture, and RTE, the Irish public broadcaster, will provide stripped-back coverage. The decision to play the matches in neutral venues was made to avoid potential security issues, and to prevent boycotts that could harm Irish football.
Fans and athletes have expressed their disapproval, signing an open letter urging a boycott. Despite the contentious nature of the fixture, both teams have expressed their commitment to playing the match.
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