Vancouver, British Columbia – A tense moment unfolded at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver on Thursday as Jibril Rajoub, President of the Palestine Football Association, declined an invitation to pose for a photograph with Basim Sheikh Suliman, Vice-President of the Israel Football Association. The refusal, initiated after both officials addressed delegates, underscored the ongoing political complexities surrounding the sport and the Palestinian Football Association’s recent appeals to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
FIFA President Gianni Infantino attempted to bring Rajoub and Sheikh Suliman together for the photo opportunity, but Rajoub repeatedly declined, according to reports from Agence France-Presse and RMC Sport. At one point, Rajoub was heard stating, “We are suffering,” highlighting the deep-seated frustrations felt by the Palestinian Football Association.
The incident occurred against a backdrop of legal challenges brought forth by the PFA. The association is currently appealing FIFA’s decision not to sanction Israel over football clubs based in the West Bank. The PFA argues that these clubs should not be permitted to compete within leagues governed by Israeli football authorities. This dispute centers on the legality of clubs operating in what the PFA considers occupied territory.
In October 2024, a group of United Nations experts called on FIFA to uphold international law regarding the participation of these West Bank settlement clubs. The experts identified at least eight clubs operating within Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, urging FIFA to fulfill its responsibility to respect human rights. The PFA maintains that allowing these clubs to compete legitimizes the settlements, which are considered illegal under international law.
Speaking to reporters following the Congress proceedings, Rajoub reiterated his call for FIFA to apply its statutes fairly. He expressed his dismay at the situation in Palestine, citing the destruction of Palestinian sports facilities in Gaza and the deaths of numerous Palestinian athletes and employees. “I think it’s now the time to make justice,” Rajoub stated. He further explained his refusal to engage with Sheikh Suliman, questioning how he could share a moment with someone seemingly indifferent to the suffering in Palestine. “I refused to shake hands. How can I shake hands or have a photo with such a man?”
The situation highlights the intersection of politics and sport, a challenge FIFA has consistently faced in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. FIFA has previously attempted to mediate between the two associations, but progress has been limited. The PFA’s appeal to CAS represents a significant escalation in their efforts to address the issue.
The FIFA Congress brings together representatives from national football associations worldwide to discuss the governance of the sport and make key decisions regarding its future. This year’s event, held in Vancouver, was intended to focus on preparations for upcoming tournaments, including the expanded Club World Cup and the ongoing development of women’s football. However, the exchange between Rajoub and Sheikh Suliman served as a stark reminder of the political challenges that continue to impact the global game.
The outcome of the PFA’s appeal to CAS remains uncertain. A ruling in their favor could potentially lead to significant changes in the structure of Israeli football and the eligibility of West Bank settlement clubs. However, a rejection of the appeal would likely prolong the dispute and further strain relations between the two associations.
The next scheduled action for FIFA is the draw for the expanded Club World Cup, set to capture place in Zurich on June 27, 2026. This event will provide another opportunity for the organization to demonstrate its commitment to inclusivity and fairness in the face of ongoing political challenges. Fans and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how FIFA navigates these complex issues and upholds its stated values.
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