DUBLIN, Ireland: Political leaders and former athletes are urging the Irish Government to support Basketball Ireland after the national women's team was drawn to face Israel in a qualifying group for the 2027 FIBA Women's EuroBasket tournament.

The draw places Ireland in Group A alongside Israel, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Luxembourg, with an away match scheduled in Israel on November 18.

Basketball Ireland has expressed concern about the financial and competitive repercussions of boycotting the fixture. In a statement, the organization said non-participation in the November game could result in fines of up to 80,000 euros. Refusing to play the home leg could trigger a 100,000-euro penalty, expulsion from the current qualifiers, and disqualification from the 2029 campaign as well.

The draw has reignited debate following a controversial matchup between the two teams earlier this year. In February 2024, Ireland played Israel in Riga, Latvia, amid intense public opposition over Israel's military campaign in Gaza. This time, Basketball Ireland says it is in active dialogue with international sports authorities, the Irish Government, and relevant stakeholders.

Former Irish player Rebecca O'Keeffe voiced strong support for government intervention. "If sanctions are on the table, then absolutely the Government needs to step in," she said. "Basketball is already an underfunded sport here, despite its rapid growth. This is about more than just sport—it's about values."

O'Keeffe welcomed the governing body's transparency and its efforts to consult widely before any decision. "There's strong public support for taking a stand," she said. "They have options, and sometimes it's bigger than basketball—bigger than money."

Politicians echoed those sentiments, calling for broader reflection across Irish sport.

Social Democrats spokesperson on sport, Sinead Gibney, said that all governing bodies should reassess their participation in events involving Israeli teams. She specifically named Athletics Ireland, urging it to consider whether to compete at the upcoming World Athletics Championships in September.

"I know what that means for our athletes, and I don't want pressure put on any individual," Gibney said. "But the responsibility lies with the governing bodies to assess the situation and take action where necessary."

Sinn Féin's foreign affairs spokesperson, Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire, emphasized that individual athletes should not be left to shoulder the burden of political decisions.

"The public isn't expecting the basketball team to resolve this," he said. "Boycotts may be justified, but the Irish Government must lead. People want to see action on the Occupied Territories Bill, movement on war bonds, and a stronger Irish voice within the EU on Gaza."

As the November fixture draws closer, Basketball Ireland faces a tricky balancing act—one that weighs sporting ambition against ethical concerns and international solidarity. Whether the Government steps in to help absorb potential penalties or offers political direction remains to be seen.