Unusual decision — how matches with Israel will be shown in Ireland

Irish public broadcaster RTE will show Nations League matches against Israel under contract, but without studio programs, its own commentators, advertising, or sponsors. The decision was made amid criticism of Israel and calls for a boycott due to the war in Gaza. It has caused dissatisfaction on both sides: some demand a complete refusal to broadcast, while others believe viewers have the right to normal coverage.

Irish public broadcaster RTE has announced an unusual decision regarding the broadcast of two matches between the Republic of Ireland and Israel in the Nations League. Under the terms of the contract, RTE is obligated to show these games, so the matches themselves will be broadcast. However, almost all accompanying coverage will be canceled: there will be no studio programs before or after the matches, RTE will not use its own experts or commentators — viewers will only hear the international feed commentary. The company has also declined to place advertising or sponsorship agreements for these matches. The decision was made amid sharp criticism of Israel in Ireland and calls to boycott Israel due to the war in the Gaza Strip. It has caused dissatisfaction on both sides: some demand that the matches not be shown at all, while others believe viewers have the right to a normal broadcast. The first match will take place on September 27 in Debrecen, Hungary (formally an Israeli home game), and the return match on October 4 in Bačka Topola, Serbia. Earlier, the Football Association of Ireland asked for Israel to be excluded from European competitions but stated it would play the matches under UEFA rules.