An Open Letter to the Heads of FIFA: Safeguarding the Spirit of Soccer by Keeping Politics Out

Dear Mr. Infantino and esteemed FIFA Executive Committee Members,

As the world eagerly anticipates the decision set to be made by FIFA on August 31st regarding the potential ban of Israel and its clubs from international soccer competitions, we find it imperative to voice our concerns and advocate for the preservation of soccer's core values. The request made by the Palestinian Football Association to ban Israel from participating in global tournaments has raised significant concerns about the politicization of the sport and its impact on the unifying spirit that soccer embodies.

Soccer, often hailed as the "beautiful game," has the unique ability to transcend national and political boundaries. It serves as a universal language that fosters connection, understanding, and camaraderie among diverse populations. This cherished quality of soccer, which brings together players and fans from all walks of life, is at risk if FIFA allows political considerations to influence its decisions.

The potential ban on Israeli teams threatens to undermine the foundational principle of neutrality that FIFA stands for. The Israel Football Association, representing a diverse soccer community including Arab-Israelis who play a significant role in the country’s soccer scene, may face undue discrimination. Such a move could not only unfairly target a particular nation but also diminish the role of soccer as a unifying force in a region fraught with political tensions.

Moreover, it is crucial to recognize that soccer’s primary role should be to foster sportsmanship and unity, rather than to become entangled in geopolitical conflicts. The decision to exclude any team based on political pressures could set a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to further divisions within the global soccer community. The focus should remain on ensuring that soccer remains a platform for peace, mutual respect, and sporting excellence.

We urge FIFA to adhere to its commitment to neutrality and fairness. The organization's decisions should be guided by the principles of sportsmanship and the promotion of the game, rather than external political influences. By upholding these values, FIFA can continue to champion soccer as a unifying force that brings people together, regardless of their political or national affiliations.

In light of the potential implications of this decision, we join in calling for FIFA to remain impartial and to resist pressures that might compromise the sport's integrity. We believe that soccer should remain a realm where individuals from all backgrounds can compete on a level playing field, driven by their passion for the game and their dedication to sporting excellence.

We invite all concerned parties to support this call to action and advocate for a fair and neutral approach in FIFA’s decision-making processes. The link to join this call to action is pro

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