
FIFA Vice President Says UEFA Should Decide Israel’s Future Role in World Soccer
As calls circulated for Israel’s suspension from international soccer, FIFA vice president Victor Montagliani said the question should be handled by UEFA, the European governing body where Israel competes. UEFA had been expected to weigh a vote but reportedly delayed following the publication of the American plan to end the Gaza war and free the hostages. Montagliani, who leads CONCACAF, stressed that each confederation should manage its own member matters, while FIFA continues preparing for next year’s expanded World Cup.
Amid appeals from advocacy groups to bar Israel’s football association, Montagliani said any decisions must respect established processes and not be driven by political statements. Organizers also indicated no plans to change World Cup host venues, while acknowledging that kickoff times and heat considerations may be adjusted based on recent U.S.-hosted tournaments.
The debate over Israel’s participation underscores the intersection of sport and geopolitics since the war’s outbreak, with disciplinary questions now tied to cease-fire prospects and the fate of hostages. For Israeli players, continued qualification matches within UEFA remain crucial for maintaining their pathway to the 2026 World Cup. (TOI/VFI News)