During a press conference at Parliament, Lopez called for sports organizations to exclude Israel from international competitions, similar to how FIFA and UEFA banned Russia after its military campaign in Ukraine. When asked if Spain would withdraw from the World Cup if Israel participated, he replied, "We are considering this and will decide at the appropriate time,".
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Patxi Lopez. Photo: Reuters |
Patxi Lopez. Photo: Reuters
The 65-year-old Lopez is the President of the Spanish Constitutional Commission and the President of the Congress of Deputies. His statement comes amid growing debate in Spain about Israel's participation in international events. Previously, the Spanish government also announced it would not participate in the Eurovision Song Contest if Israel was present, following public pressure.
Israel is vying for its second World Cup appearance, having last qualified in 1970. After five matches in Group I of the European qualifiers, they have 9 points, placing third behind Norway and Italy, but ahead of Estonia and Moldova. This position is currently not enough to secure a direct ticket or a spot in the second qualifying round.
However, Israel trails Italy only on goal difference. In their September 8th encounter, coach Gennaro Gattuso's team narrowly defeated Israel 5-4 thanks to midfielder Sandro Tonali's decisive goal in the second half's stoppage time. The rematch between Italy and Israel on 14/10 in Udine could determine World Cup qualification.
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Midfielder Mikel Merino celebrates Spain's fifth goal against Turkey at the Konya Buyuksehir Stadium, Konya, Turkey, during the European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup on the evening of 7/9/2025. Photo: Reuters |
Midfielder Mikel Merino celebrates Spain's fifth goal against Turkey at the Konya Buyuksehir Stadium, Konya, Turkey, during the European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup on the evening of 7/9/2025. Photo: Reuters
Beyond football, other sectors in Spain are witnessing a wave of protests against Israel. This year's Vuelta a Espana cycling race experienced disruptions in several stages due to demonstrations, including the final stage in Madrid and the awards ceremony.
Social media users expressed diverse opinions on Lopez's statement. User hgwxx7_ commented on Reddit, "The phrase 'under pressure' is just a fantasy, as it's essentially the words of an individual without power,".
User Strobacaxi countered, "He is not a person without power, but the spokesperson of the largest political party in Spain,".
User myassholealt wrote, "There's no way any country would boycott the World Cup if they've already qualified. It's the pinnacle of a player's career, and they won't give it up for any reason,".
However, user mimierthegod1, who identifies as Algerian, responded, "I'm pretty sure we won't compete if Israel participates. Algerian athletes have never accepted facing Israel in any sport, even before the escalation of tensions in Gaza,".
Compiled by Hoang An.
