Al-Rajoub Ignites Controversy at FIFA After Refusing to Shake Hands with Israeli Federation Vice President

Al-Rajoub Refuses to Shake Hands with Israeli Federation Vice President at FIFA Conference

In a notable incident during the International Football Federation conference, Jibril Al-Rajoub, the President of the Palestinian Football Association, refused to shake hands with Bassam Sheikh Suleiman, the Vice President of the Israeli Football Association, during the FIFA Congress held in Vancouver, Canada, on Thursday, April 30, 2026.

Infantino Intervenes to Try to Bring Both Parties to the Stage

During the conference, Gianni Infantino, the President of FIFA, invited both Al-Rajoub and Suleiman to come to the main stage.

Infantino placed his hand on Al-Rajoub's arm in an attempt to encourage him to approach the Israeli Vice President, but Al-Rajoub refused and apologized for not shaking hands.

Infantino's Message: Working Together Despite Differences

After the incident, Infantino took to the stage and emphasized the importance of cooperation, stating: "We will work together, President Al-Rajoub, and Vice President Suleiman. Let's work together to give hope to children. These are complex issues," referring to the need to overcome differences.

Suzan Shalabi's Statement Reveals Background of the Refusal

For her part, Suzan Shalabi, the Vice President of the Palestinian Football Association, who was present at the conference, revealed details of Al-Rajoub's stance.

She stated in a comment to Reuters: "I cannot shake hands with someone brought by the Israelis to whitewash their fascism and genocide! We are suffering," explaining the reasons for the refusal to shake hands.

Summary of the Incident at the FIFA Conference in Vancouver

The FIFA Congress in Canada witnessed a clear moment of tension represented by the Palestinian Federation President's refusal to shake hands with his Israeli counterpart, despite the intervention of the FIFA President.

This incident comes in the context of complex political issues that sometimes reflect on the international sports scene.