Israel Faces Possible UEFA Ban Amid Calls for World Cup Suspension

Israel could be suspended from European football as soon as next week, with UEFA’s executive committee expected to vote on banning the country’s football association and clubs. Sources told Telegraph Sport that most committee members support suspension, and talks are planned with FIFA about extending the measure to World Cup qualifiers.

The move comes after a UN panel accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza — allegations Israel has rejected as «distorted and false.» Former footballer Eric Cantona, actor Benedict Cumberbatch, and political figures including Jeremy Corbyn have joined calls for Israel to be excluded from global sport.

The Trump administration has warned it would intervene to prevent Israel’s expulsion from next year’s World Cup in North America, with U.S. officials stressing they will oppose any attempt to ban the national team.

UEFA and FIFA previously suspended Russia within days of its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Israel, however, continues to compete in qualifiers, though Spain and other European countries have threatened boycotts if the team remains in the tournament.

Dominick Reyes is set on re-entering the light heavyweight title picture after enduring a difficult spell that saw him lose four consecutive bouts, including a razor-thin defeat in a championship fight several years ago.