Israel’s World Cup path would be easier through Asia. Here’s why it’s sticking with Europe

Despite the looming presence of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Israel Football Association (IFA) has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing qualification through the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA). This decision comes even though a move to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) could present a less challenging path to the tournament.

Israel's sole appearance in the World Cup was in 1970. Following political pressures and boycotts, the country was effectively ejected from the AFC in 1974. After participating in Oceania qualifiers, Israel settled into the European grouping in 1991. Shlomi Barzel, head of communications for the IFA, stated that a return to Asia is not under consideration, emphasizing the standing Israel has built within European soccer.

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Israel would automatically qualify.

Barzel acknowledged that rejoining the AFC might seem like a strategic move, especially given past boycotts that affected Israel's qualification campaigns. He even joked that opponents boycotting matches against Israel would lead to automatic qualification. However, he rejected the premise that rejoining Asia would guarantee future World Cup berths, suggesting it would be "patronizing and arro[gant]" to assume so.

The IFA's stance prioritizes competing within UEFA's robust system, even though it makes qualification a difficult prospect. This is underscored by the fact that even strong European teams, like four-time World Cup winner Italy, failed to qualify for the current tournament. Israel remains the only non-European country competing in UEFA qualifiers, while most of its neighbors participate in the AFC.

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It would be a little patronizing and arro[gant]