Fifa president Gianni Infantino has said that world football’s governing body cannot resolve global political disputes, as pressure grows on the sport’s authorities to take action against Israel following a United Nations report.
A UN commission of inquiry recently concluded that Israel had committed acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, sparking calls from Amnesty International and UN human rights experts for Israel’s suspension from international football competitions.
The issue was not formally included on the agenda at a Fifa council meeting in Zurich on Thursday, but Infantino addressed it in his opening remarks. He said Fifa’s role was to bring people together through the game rather than intervene in political conflicts.
“Our thoughts are with those who are suffering in the many conflicts that exist around the world today,” Infantino said. “The most important message that football can convey right now is one of peace and unity. Fifa cannot solve geopolitical problems, but it can and must promote football by harnessing its unifying, educational, cultural and humanitarian values.”
Israel’s national team is currently competing in European qualifiers for the 2026 men’s World Cup, while club side Maccabi Tel Aviv are playing in the Europa League. Fifa vice-president Victor Montagliani said it was for Uefa, which organises European competitions, to decide on any potential sanctions against Israel.
Israel are currently third in their qualifying group, six points behind leaders Norway. The group winners automatically qualify for the tournament, while second-placed teams enter play-offs. The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
The United States has signalled opposition to any moves aimed at barring Israel from participation. Washington has vowed to resist attempts to exclude the country from international competitions.
The UN report found that four of the five acts constituting genocide under international law had been carried out by Israel in Gaza since the conflict began in 2023. Israel has rejected the findings, calling them false and insisting its actions are necessary for self-defence.
