Ireland refuse handshakes with Israel before UEFA Nations League match
Players wore black armbands and stood with bowed heads during the Israeli anthem; captain Dara O'Shea declined to shake Manor Solomon’s hand.
Ireland's national team created a major stir on the evening of 27 September 2026 when players refused to shake hands with their Israeli counterparts before the UEFA Nations League fixture. The squad elected to play the match but declined the customary pre-game handshakes and stood with bowed heads during the Israeli national anthem.
Captain declines handshake, team wears black armbands
Captain Dara O'Shea did not shake hands with Israel's captain Manor Solomon prior to kick-off, a gesture that was noticed across the stands and on broadcast coverage. Members of the Irish side also wore black armbands as a mark of respect for victims of the conflict involving Israel.
The decision followed earlier pressure from the Irish sporting community: more than 160 Irish athletes had signed an open letter urging a reconsideration of playing fixtures against Israel. Despite that call, the national team chose to honor the scheduled Nations League match while expressing protest through their on-field conduct.
The gesture — refusal to exchange the traditional captain's greeting and the team's sombre stance during the anthem — prompted immediate reaction from fans and commentators. Some praised the players for taking a stand, while others argued political statements should be avoided in sport.
Irish football officials confirmed the match went ahead as planned. No details were released about any disciplinary measures related to the pre-match conduct, and the team completed the fixture on the night of 27 September 2026.
Photo: BBC SPORT NI @BBCSPORTNI (X)
