Italy’s Coaches Association Appeals to FIFA, UEFA for Israel Ban

Italy’s national soccer coaches association has asked the country’s soccer federation to push for Israel’s temporary suspension from international competitions in response to the conflict in Gaza.

The Association of Italian Coaches (AIAC), led by president Renzo Ulivieri, said the request was submitted in a letter to Gabriele Gravina, head of the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC). The appeal also calls on UEFA and FIFA to take action.

The Italian national team is scheduled to face Israel in World Cup qualifying matches between September and October.

AIAC described the move as “not just a symbolic action, but a necessary choice, responding to a moral imperative, shared by the entire leadership team.” The association’s national board approved the appeal unanimously after an internal meeting, it said.

“The values of humanity, which underpin those of sport, compel us to oppose acts of oppression with terrible consequences,” Ulivieri said.

Vice President Renzo Camolese added: “We can only focus on playing, looking the other way: we believe this is unfair.”

Vice President Giuseppe Vossi cited “too many innocent deaths, including many athletes,” as justification for “international countermeasures in our sector.”

“The world is in flames. Many people, like the Palestinians, are suffering. Indifference is unacceptable,” Vice President Roberto Perondi said.

Read more via ANSA/AIAC