World football governing body FIFA has fined the Israel Football Association 150,000 Swiss francs (about $190,700) for breaching its anti-discrimination rules.
The decision followed an investigation by FIFA’s disciplinary committee, which found that the IFA failed to take meaningful action against Beitar Jerusalem over what it described as persistent and well-documented racist behaviour.
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The case was triggered in October 2024 after the Palestine Football Association submitted a complaint alleging discrimination in Israeli football. While the PFA called for the IFA’s suspension, FIFA opted instead for financial sanctions and corrective measures.
In its findings, FIFA said the IFA did not meet its obligations to uphold the organisation’s core principles. The disciplinary panel cited repeated racist incidents, including offensive chants and discriminatory slogans used by supporters of Beitar Jerusalem, describing them as part of a wider pattern rather than isolated events.
FIFA also criticised the sanctions imposed on the club, calling them insufficient and ineffective in addressing the issue.
As part of the punishment, the IFA received a formal warning and has been ordered to display anti-discrimination banners at its next three home matches in FIFA competitions. In addition, one-third of the fine must be used to fund initiatives aimed at combating discrimination and preventing future incidents.
The report further faulted the IFA for failing to respond to political and militaristic messaging by some football officials and clubs. It added that the association had not publicly condemned racism or taken visible steps to promote inclusion, particularly of Arab and Palestinian players.
In response, the IFA said it had taken action against racism but admitted that many of its efforts were not made public. It pledged to intensify its measures moving forward.
Unresolved Issue of West Bank Clubs
In a separate matter, FIFA said it could not make a ruling on whether Israeli clubs based in the occupied West Bank should be allowed to compete in Israeli leagues.
The organisation’s governance and compliance committee stated that the legal status of the West Bank remains complex and unresolved under international law.
The PFA welcomed the decision as a step forward but said it did not fully address the seriousness of the concerns raised.
Previously, experts linked to the United Nations Human Rights Council reported that at least eight clubs were playing in Israeli settlements in the West Bank and urged FIFA to uphold its human rights responsibilities.
They warned that sports governance should not undermine fundamental human rights, especially in regions affected by conflict.