Pro‑Palestinian organizations and activists launched a protest during the opening of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Toronto, demanding that Israel be expelled from world football’s governing body over its genocide in Gaza and ongoing occupation of Palestinian territories.

Demonstrators took over official tournament advertising spaces, placing a large red banner reading “Kick Israel out of FIFA” to draw international media attention. They recalled that FIFA acted quickly to suspend Russia after the start of its operation in Ukraine, but has failed to take similar measures against Tel Aviv despite repeated reports of international law violations and sustained attacks in Gaza.

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A notable element of the protest was the participation of dozens of jews wearing shirts that said “Jews for a Free Palestine,” signaling support from the Jewish community that rejects Israel’s military policies and separates religious identity from state actions.

The street action follows a formal complaint filed by the Palestinian Football Association. The protest in Toronto marked the first of several planned actions during the World Cup, with activists vowing to continue pressuring football authorities.

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