Spain’s ruling Socialist Workers’ Party has hinted that the national football team could pull out of the 2026 World Cup if Israel qualifies, a move that could spark a major showdown with FIFA.
Party spokesperson Patxi Lopez explained that Spain would “assess” its stance should Israel secure a spot in the finals. His remarks followed a United Nations commission report earlier this week accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.
“We’ll evaluate the situation when the time comes,” Lopez said. “If Israeli teams are barred from events like Eurovision, it’s because people are opening their eyes. Ours are already wide open, and we refuse to remain silent about what we see.”
Israel has not appeared at a World Cup since 1970, but they remain in contention for the expanded 2026 edition. Currently third in their qualifying group and tied on points with Italy, they still face an uphill battle to secure a play-off spot, having played one more game than their rivals.
Any attempt by Spain to withdraw would put FIFA in a difficult position, as the governing body has consistently resisted political interference in football.
The debate adds to a string of recent sporting tensions in Spain. Just weeks ago, stage eleven of the Vuelta a España cycling race was abandoned after pro-Palestinian protesters blocked the finish line in Bilbao. Demonstrators targeted the Israel-Premier Tech team, waving flags, spraying graffiti, and forcing organisers to halt the race three kilometres before the end.
Spanish rider Carlos Verona voiced his frustration after the stage was scrapped. “I respect peaceful protest,” he said, “but disrupting our work like this is hard to understand. Maybe Israel should compete without a flag.”
Race officials confirmed that mountain and sprint points would still count, though no stage winner was declared. Several arrests were made, and four police officers were reported injured during the clashes.
