FIFA plans Israel and Palestine under-15 match for 2026 US festival
FIFA president Gianni Infantino is facing heavy criticism after reports emerged proposing an under-15 match between Israel and Palestine to open a 2026 youth festival in the United States.
The global governing body intends to use the fixture as the inaugural game for a new global tournament open to all 211 member associations.
The 54-year-old Swiss-Italian administrator has previously attempted to use the sport as a diplomatic tool, having unsuccessfully tried to orchestrate a handshake between delegates from the two nations at May’s congress.
Critics condemn youth fixture plans
Details of the planned youth fixture have been strongly condemned, with commentators labelling the proposal as grotesque.
Critics have heavily questioned the wisdom of using children to ease geopolitical tensions while the devastating conflict in Gaza continues.
Recent reports from international charities highlight the severe human toll of the ongoing war, with devastating casualty numbers among young people recorded over the past two years.
Political tensions disrupt US tournaments
The proposed under-15 festival is scheduled to take place in September 2026, sharing a host nation with the upcoming senior World Cup.
Preparations for football events in North America have already been severely marred by strict border security laws and visa complications.
Officials and players from nations including Somalia, Iraq, and Iran have reportedly faced severe travel restrictions, event exclusions, or prolonged detentions upon arrival in the country.
Even Russia, who remain banned from official senior competitions following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, have reportedly been invited to the developmental tournament.
Israeli FA welcomes diplomatic efforts
Despite the widespread public backlash, representatives from the Israel Football Association have indicated their willingness to participate.
An official spokesperson confirmed the organisation’s commitment to ongoing peace initiatives.
Our FA President, Moshe Zuares, will stick to what he said several times publicly at FIFA congress and everywhere – we are more than ever willing to use football as an instrument to promote normalisation and peace.
Our hands are always extended for a better future for everyone. We hope to find a brave partner on the other side.
