# Ireland-Israel news conference ends amid racism claims

> Ireland's coach denies racist allegations after match against Israel.
- Title: Ireland-Israel news conference ends amid racism claims
- Summary: Ireland's coach denies racist allegations after match against Israel. Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson says racist claims against his team are…
- Keywords: republic of ireland, israel, heimir hallgrimsson, football, faire, gaza, racism, match, sports, Ireland-Israel, news, conference
- Source: BBC Sport — https://bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cm78p5x6xqq7o
- Published: 2026-10-03T13:02:11.815+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: republic of ireland, israel, heimir hallgrimsson, football, faire, gaza, racism, match, sports
## News conference ends abruptly
The Republic of Ireland's news conference before their second match against Israel ended abruptly as head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson fielded questions from Israeli journalists.
## Alleged racism during match
One reporter asked Hallgrimsson about alleged racism by Irish players during last Sunday's 3-0 win over Israel in Hungary.
## FAI denies racism claims
Football Association of Ireland communications manager Kieran Crowley said those allegations were 'completely untrue' as the mood soured.

> completely untrue
## Israel FA response
Israel's media officer confirmed the Israel FA has not lodged a complaint with Uefa but will think about that after the match tomorrow.
## Hallgrimsson's focus
Head coach Ran Ben-Shimon said a good result tomorrow is his only focus, avoiding details about the incident.
## Hallgrimsson's statement
Hallgrimsson stressed he would not get involved in the incident, saying it is a game with a lot of emotions attached.
## Togetherness focus
Hallgrimsson said the team's togetherness is stronger than individuals, especially after the Gaza conflict.
## Key takeaway

Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson says racist claims against his team are untrue after their 3-0 win over Israel.