24.03.2026 23:20
Palestine found FIFA's sanctions against Israel in the form of a monetary fine to be "far from serious" and "inconsistent." In a statement from the Palestinian Football Association, it was stated, "The sanctions imposed do not reflect the full scope or seriousness of the findings. Although the rules clearly foresee measures such as point deductions, disqualifications from competitions, or matches behind closed doors, no sporting sanctions have been applied."
The Palestinian Football Association (PFA) stated that FIFA's sanctions against Israel are "far from serious" and "inconsistent."
RESPONSE FROM PALESTINE TO FIFA
In a statement from the PFA, it was noted that the sanctions imposed by FIFA on the Israel Football Association are insufficient. The statement said, "The sanctions imposed do not reflect the full scope or seriousness of the findings. The fine of 150,000 Swiss francs, which is only 15% of the maximum amount possible under FIFA's disciplinary rules Article 6.4, along with warnings and anti-discrimination banners, clearly falls short of the seriousness declared by the FIFA Governance, Compliance, and Audit Committee. Although the rules explicitly foresee measures such as point deductions, disqualification from competitions, or matches behind closed doors, no sporting sanctions have been applied."
'WEAKENING CREDIBILITY AND CONSISTENCY'
It was emphasized that the fine imposed on Israeli clubs is "almost irrelevant" and has "no deterrent effect," stating, "This decision undermines the credibility and consistency of the FIFA Governance, Compliance, and Audit Committee."
PFA EXCLUDED FROM DISCIPLINARY PROCESS
The statement highlighted that the PFA was completely excluded during the disciplinary process conducted by FIFA. It was reported that the PFA was not informed of the initiation of the investigation, the allegations, or the decision, and it was noted: "We had no opportunity to present evidence, be heard, or address the proportionality of the sanctions. This exclusion raises serious concerns regarding the principles of procedural justice and equality of arms."
The statement emphasized that an application will be made to the Sports Arbitration Court regarding the process, stating:
"Considering all of the above, the Palestinian Football Association will take all appropriate steps within the framework of FIFA, including exercising its right to appeal before FIFA's judicial bodies, and will pursue relevant legal avenues, including the Sports Arbitration Court, to ensure the protection of its rights as a member federation, respect for the principle of proportionality, and the unreserved application of the FIFA Statutes."