Basketball Ireland has confirmed that the Ireland Women’s game with Israel will go ahead next week, despite some players’ decision to boycott in protest of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
“Basketball Ireland is obliged to fulfill this fixture, as failing to do so will result in a significant fine from FIBA Europe of €80,000,” said a spokesman.
The game, which will take place in Latvia on Feb. 8, was originally scheduled to take place in Tel Aviv, but was postponed over safety concerns after the Oct. 7th Hamas attack on Israel and Israel’s following invasion of Gaza.
Five players are believed to be boycotting the game, citing concerns over Israeli Defense Forces’ responsibility for civilian deaths in Gaza, as well as player safety.
Basketball Ireland said that should Ireland not play the Feb. 8 game and the return game in November, they would be removed from the 2025 EuroBasket Tournament as well as the 2027 qualifiers, “resulting in an effective five-year ban from competing at international level for our senior women’s team.”
They confirmed boycotting players will not be penalized for their decision and will still be considered for future games.