Spain’s ruling Socialist Workers’ Party has signalled that the national football team could be withdrawn from the 2026 World Cup if Israel secures qualification, raising the prospect of a political storm that may test FIFA’s authority.
Spokesperson for the party, Patxi Lopez, said Spain would “assess” its position if Israel reached the finals. His comments followed a United Nations commission report earlier this week, which accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.
“We will assess the situation at the right time,” Lopez explained. “What we want is for people to realise that if Israeli teams cannot take part in sporting events or Eurovision, some are starting to open their eyes. Because ours are wide open and do not tolerate what they see, which is why we cannot and will not remain silent.”
Israel have not qualified for a World Cup since 1970 but remain in contention for next year’s expanded tournament. They sit third in their UEFA qualifying group, level on points with Italy in the play-off position, though they have played one game more.
Any attempt by Spain to pull out would likely invite severe consequences from FIFA, which has long opposed government interference in football matters.
Lopez’s remarks also echo recent tensions in Spain’s sporting scene. Just two weeks ago, the 11th stage of the Vuelta a España was abandoned after pro-Palestine protesters blocked the finish line in Bilbao.
Demonstrators targeted the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team, waving flags, spraying graffiti and forcing organisers to halt the race three kilometres from the scheduled finish.
Madrid-born rider Carlos Verona voiced his frustration after the stage was cancelled. “I understand peaceful protests, but I don’t understand them interrupting our work. Perhaps Israel should compete without a flag,” he said.
Race officials confirmed that mountain and sprint points would count, but no stage winner would be recorded. Several arrests were made after clashes, while four police officers were injured.
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