Kerr, Quinn Lead Campaign Demanding FAI Boycott Israel Nations League Matches

Shamrock Rovers captain Roberto Lopes has issued a direct challenge to the Football Association of Ireland (FAI): "Stop the game." He's joined by prominent figures including former Irish national team manager Brian Kerr and 2019 FAI women's player of the year Louise Quinn, who have all signed an open letter urging the association to cancel its two scheduled UEFA Nations League matches against Israel.

The initiative, coordinated by Irish Sport for Palestine through their "Stop the Game" campaign, comes 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 mandate, the governing body proceeded to schedule the fixtures.

FAI maintains fixtures will proceed as planned

FAI CEO David Courell stated in February that Ireland has "no choice" but to honour the commitments, cautioning that forfeiting would result in "serious consequences" and significant damage to Irish football's future prospects. The organization reports it has coordinated with the Irish government and An Garda Síochána (Irish police), and is confident the home match can safely proceed in Dublin.

That official stance hasn't satisfied the letter's signatories.

Lopes, currently preparing to represent Cape Verde at the upcoming World Cup, articulated the position in language designed to challenge the FAI's public messaging. "We cannot turn a blind eye to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Palestine; the devastating loss of life must take priority over any sporting event," he stated. "Ireland has a chance to demonstrate leadership here — to be trailblazers and take action where others hesitate."

The letter also references what it describes as "clear and ongoing serious violations" of UEFA and FIFA regulations concerning Israeli teams competing on occupied Palestinian territory, and calls on the FAI to uphold those rules independently if UEFA refuses to act.

Notable signatories amplify the message

The 38 signatories represent a cross-section of Irish cultural and sporting life. Musicians including Christy Moore, along with bands Fontaines DC and Kneecap, have lent their names to the cause — demonstrating this has evolved beyond an internal football matter into a wider national discussion in Ireland.

Among football figures, Kerr and Quinn bring considerable credibility. Kerr guided the men's national team and continues to command respect throughout Irish football. Quinn served as women's team captain and received the FAI's player of the year honour. These are influential, mainstream voices.

• Roberto Lopes — Shamrock Rovers captain and Professional Footballers' Association of Ireland chair
• Brian Kerr — former Republic of Ireland men's national team manager
• Louise Quinn — 2019 FAI women's player of the year
• Christy Moore, Fontaines DC, Kneecap — prominent cultural figures among the signatories

The FAI has established its position. The outstanding question is whether mounting public pressure — backed by the stature of those leading it — will be sufficient to force a change before the matches take place.