UEFA Postpones Matches in Israel Amid Heightened Regional Tensions
October 9, 2023
UEFA has postponed all matches in Israel due to increased tensions in the region. The decision affects multiple qualifiers and tournaments, with UEFA monitoring the situation for future scheduling changes.
UEFA has postponed all matches scheduled in Israel during the next fortnight amid increased tensions in the region.
More than 600 Israelis have been killed in attacks from Gaza since Saturday, the government said.
UEFA said Israel’s Euro 2024 qualifier against Switzerland on Thursday was among matches postponed “in light of the current security situation”.
Also postponed are Israel’s European Under-21 qualifying matches against Estonia and Germany on October 12 and 17 and the European Under-17 mini tournament with matches featuring Israel, Gibraltar, Belgium and Wales, which were scheduled from October 11 to 17.
UEFA said it will assess the situation over the coming days to see whether Israel’s European Championship qualifier in Kosovo can still take place on October 15.
“UEFA will continue to closely monitor the situation and will remain in contact with all teams involved before making decisions on new dates and on potential changes to other upcoming fixtures,” it said.
Israeli Premier League champions Maccabi Haifa are playing in the Europa League this season and are due to visit Villarreal following the international break.
Their next home game in the competition is scheduled for November 7 against the Spanish side. (BBC)
