On Thursday, FIFA announced that it would not take action regarding the formal complaints made by the Palestinian soccer federation in 2024 against its Israeli counterpart, including the suspension of membership.
However, FIFA imposed a fine of 150,000 Swiss francs ($190,000) on the Israel Football Association for disciplinary issues related to “discrimination and racist abuse,” as well as “offensive behavior and breaches of the principles of fair play.”
Palestinian soccer representatives have consistently claimed that Israel breaches FIFA regulations by allowing teams from settlements in the West Bank to participate in the national league.
“FIFA should refrain from taking action considering that, in light of the interpretation of the relevant provisions of the FIFA Statutes, the final legal status of the West Bank remains an unresolved and highly intricate issue under public international law,” stated the soccer organization.
“FIFA cannot resolve geopolitical disputes,” remarked Infantino, who presented a specially created peace prize to U.S. President Donald Trump during the World Cup draw in December.
“[B]ut we are dedicated to leveraging the influence of football and the FIFA World Cup to foster connections and encourage peace, as our thoughts are with those enduring the consequences of ongoing conflicts,” he added.
The disciplinary inquiry into Israeli soccer was initiated 18 months ago following formal complaints from the Palestinian federation.
According to FIFA’s ruling, one third of the fine must be allocated by Israeli officials towards “the implementation of a comprehensive plan to ensure action against discrimination and to prevent future incidents.”
“The plan must receive FIFA’s approval and should concentrate on the following areas: reforms, protocols, monitoring, and educational initiatives in stadiums and through official channels for an entire season,” FIFA’s judges determined.
The judges expressed that they “cannot remain indifferent to the broader human context in which football operates” and emphasized that the sport “must continue to serve as a platform for peace, dialogue, and mutual respect.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
