Spain threatens to withdraw from 2026 World Cup if Israel plays

Spain’s officials have hinted that their country may withdraw from the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, if the Israeli national team participates in the tournament.

Spain threatens to withdraw from 2026 world cup over Israel

The Spanish newspaper Marca reported that Patxi López, spokesperson for the Socialist Group in the Spanish Parliament, left the door open to a possible withdrawal in protest against what he described as genocide in Gaza, stressing that the vast majority of Spanish society cannot tolerate the daily scenes of killing and destruction in the Strip.

López explained that seeing children killed, people targeted while searching for food, and cities destroyed for the interests of wealthy individuals constitutes violations that cannot be tolerated. He added that the Spanish people refuse to be complicit and are taking to the streets to protest, especially when Israeli teams funded by supporters of Netanyahu’s government roam the country’s streets.

He stressed that Israeli society must see the world’s position on the actions of its government, emphasizing that Spain may ban Israeli teams from participating in all sporting events, including the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, if the relevant sports authorities do not take clear action.

Lopez called for Israel to be excluded from international competitions, as was previously done with Russia, warning that Spain’s withdrawal could become a reality if Israeli teams continue to participate without accountability.

An escalating situation

The tournament is being held for the first time in three countries, with European champions Spain occupying a leading position in the qualifiers after two wins from two games, while Israel is seeking to secure at least a place in the World Cup qualifying play-offs.

This escalation comes in the context of the ongoing Israeli invasion of Gaza and the accompanying widespread popular protests in Spain, such as those seen at the La Vuelta cycling race, objecting to the participation of Israeli teams and demanding an end to financial and political support for them.

Featured image via the Canary