Kerr, Quinn and Irish Football Figures Call for FAI to Cancel Israel Nations League Matches
Shamrock Rovers captain Roberto Lopes has issued a direct challenge to the Football Association of Ireland: "Stop the game." He's joined by prominent Irish football figures including former national team manager Brian Kerr and 2019 FAI women's player of the year Louise Quinn, who've signed an open letter urging the association to cancel two upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Israel.
The initiative, coordinated by Irish Sport for Palestine through their "Stop the Game" campaign, arrives at a critical juncture. In 2023, an overwhelming 93% of FAI members voted to direct the organization to advocate for Israel's suspension from UEFA. Despite this clear mandate, the FAI proceeded to schedule the fixtures.
FAI maintains fixtures will proceed despite opposition
FAI CEO David Courell stated in February that Ireland is obligated to fulfill these matches, cautioning that forfeiting would bring "serious consequences" and potentially damage Irish football's future prospects. The association claims it has coordinated with government officials and Irish police (An Garda Síochána) and determined the Dublin home fixture can safely proceed.
The signatories of the open letter strongly disagree with this stance.
Lopes, who will represent Cape Verde at the upcoming World Cup, articulated the argument in humanitarian terms that put pressure on the FAI's public position. "We can't turn a blind eye to the humanitarian crisis in Palestine; the devastating loss of life must take priority over any sporting considerations," he stated. "Ireland has a chance to lead here — to be a trailblazer and take action that others won't."
The letter also references alleged violations of UEFA and FIFA regulations concerning Israeli clubs competing on occupied Palestinian territory, challenging the FAI to uphold these rules independently if UEFA refuses to act.
High-profile signatories broaden the conversation
The petition has gathered 38 signatures from both sporting and cultural figures. Irish musician Christy Moore and bands Fontaines DC and Kneecap have all endorsed the campaign — indicating this issue has evolved beyond football into a wider cultural discussion across Ireland.
Within the football community, Kerr and Quinn represent particularly influential voices. Kerr's tenure as men's national team manager and his continued respect within Irish soccer gives his position significant credibility. Quinn, a former women's team captain and FAI award winner, brings similar authority from the women's game. These are established, mainstream figures in Irish football.
- Roberto Lopes — Shamrock Rovers captain and chair of the Professional Footballers' Association of Ireland
- Brian Kerr — former Republic of Ireland men's national team manager
- Louise Quinn — 2019 FAI women's player of the year and former captain
- Christy Moore, Fontaines DC, Kneecap — prominent Irish cultural figures supporting the campaign
The FAI has staked out its position clearly. The critical question is whether mounting public pressure — and the stature of those leading it — will force a reconsideration before the scheduled matches take place.