Mid-August date for Israel issue

Recent discussions
European football's governing body came to its decision after UEFA Emergency Panel talks this week, and following recent discussions between UEFA, the Israel Football Association (IFA) and senior Israeli political figures. UEFA has been reviewing the security situation on a regular basis for more than a year, since advising that European games should not be played in Israel.

Political developments
UEFA told the IFA that the Emergency Panel had taken note of the recent political developments in the region and the relatively peaceful situation. However, the Panel said it was of the view that an evaluation could only be made when a certain period of time had elapsed, and agreed that it would be premature to review recent decisions. Consequently, the panel advised the Israeli association that it would reconsider the matter in mid-August.

Neutral venues
UEFA told the association that should a decision in mid-August allow for matches to be played in Israel again, this would apply from this season's UEFA Cup first round and UEFA Champions League group phase. Israel's qualifying matches for UEFA EURO 2004™ and the UEFA European Under-21 Championship will continue to be played at neutral venues outside Israel.