More than 160 Irish sportspeople have signed an open letter urging the Republic of Ireland men’s football team to boycott upcoming Nations League matches against Israel. They say the Football Association of Ireland, Uefa and the Irish government should have acted earlier, but that withdrawing would demonstrate sport’s opposition to injustice and its potential to unite people.

Ireland are scheduled to play Israel in Hungary on 27 September and Serbia on 4 October. Signatories include Olympian Ciara Mageean, former footballer Louise Quinn, ex-rugby international Tony Ward and several prominent GAA players; the FAI has backed the fixtures by 75 votes to 32, warning a boycott could cause lasting damage and cost €10.3 million (£9 million). Manager Heimir Hallgrimsson said players did not feel comfortable with the games, although the team is expected to participate.