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Ireland coach criticized by Israel FA for controversial comments

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 22, 2026, 4:17 AM

Last updated Sep 22, 2026

Ireland coach criticized by Israel FA for controversial comments

Summary

Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson faces backlash from the Israel Football Association following remarks about their upcoming UEFA Nations League matches. Hallgrimsson claimed, 'We're playing against genocide' when discussing Israel. In response, Israel FA condemned his comments as 'stupidity, ignorance and hypocrisy' and further called out the ethics of the Ireland team. This incident escalates existing tensions between the two nations since they were drawn together in the Nations League in February. Amid growing calls for boycotts from Irish athletes, including an open letter from over 160 sports figures, UEFA has rejected the Football Association of Ireland's petition to avoid future pairings with Israel due to security considerations.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Hallgrimsson criticized Israel ahead of Nations League matches on Sept. 27 and Oct. 4.
•Israel FA labeled his comments as ignorance and hypocrisy on social media.
•Over 160 Irish athletes signed a letter urging a boycott of matches against Israel.
•UEFA rejected the Football Association of Ireland's request for match pairings.

Latest Updates

4:17 AMYahoo Sports — Ireland soccer coach criticized for 'stupidity' by Israel FA after comments

What they're saying

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The Israel Football Association criticized Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson for 'stupidity, ignorance and hypocrisy' after he commented on their Nations League matches.
— Yahoo Sports

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