Israel to Compete in Paris 2024 Olympics as FIFA Delays Decision on Suspension

FIFA has postponed its decision on a Palestinian request to suspend Israel from international football due to the conflict with Hamas. This delay ensures that the Israeli men’s national team can compete in the upcoming Paris Olympics.

Initially, FIFA was set to make a ruling during an extraordinary council meeting on Saturday, following a request for an independent legal review of the Palestinian proposal made two months prior. This decision would have come just days before the Olympic soccer tournament, where Israel is scheduled to play against Japan, Mali, and Paraguay.

On Thursday, FIFA announced that more time is needed to thoroughly conclude the process. As a result, the decision has been deferred until after the Olympics. Both Israel and Palestine requested extensions to submit their positions, and the independent assessment is now expected to be delivered to FIFA by August 31.

The men’s Olympic soccer final is slated for August 9.