Saturday Apr 04, 2026
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FIFA has fined the Israel Football Association (IFA) 150,000 Swiss francs, about $ 190,700, for multiple breaches of its anti-discrimination obligations, following an investigation into racism in Israeli football.
The decision by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee found that the IFA failed to take adequate action against Beitar Jerusalem over repeated incidents of racist behaviour by supporters.
The probe was triggered after the Palestine Football Association lodged a complaint in October 2024 alleging discrimination, prompting FIFA to initiate formal proceedings.
In its findings, the disciplinary body said the IFA had not met its statutory obligations, pointing to a pattern of incidents across Israeli football and describing sanctions imposed on Beitar Jerusalem as inadequate.
FIFA noted that racist conduct by supporters was persistent and well documented, including the use of inflammatory slogans and repeated ethnic slurs directed at Arab players, which it said undermined the integrity of the sport.
While the Palestinian FA had sought the suspension of the IFA, FIFA did not impose that sanction.
In addition to the fine, the IFA was issued a formal warning and directed to implement measures to address discrimination, including the display of anti-discrimination messaging at upcoming FIFA competition matches and the introduction of prevention and education programs.
The ruling comes amid broader scrutiny of governance and conduct within Israeli football, with FIFA stating that the issues identified go beyond a single club and reflect wider shortcomings in enforcement.
