## ICC Complaint Filed Against FIFA, UEFA Presidents Over Israeli Settlement Clubs
**By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo**
A coalition of Palestinian organisations, football stakeholders, and international advocacy groups has filed a formal complaint with the International Criminal Court (ICC) against FIFA President Gianni Infantino and UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin, accusing them of aiding alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to Israeli settlement football clubs.
The complaint, submitted on February 16, 2026, includes a 120-page dossier filed with the ICC Prosecutor and centres on FIFA and UEFA’s continued inclusion of Israeli clubs based in settlements located in occupied Palestinian territories. ([justpeaceadvocates.ca][1])
### Allegations Focus on Settlement Clubs
According to the filing, the organisations argue that FIFA and UEFA allow settlement-based clubs to compete in leagues organised by the Israel Football Association and, in some cases, in UEFA-sanctioned competitions. They claim this allegedly helps “normalise life in the settlements and legitimise Israel’s illegal occupation,” actions they say could violate provisions of the Rome Statute covering population transfer and apartheid. ([justpeaceadvocates.ca][1])
The coalition behind the complaint includes Palestinian footballers, clubs, landowners, and international advocacy organisations such as Irish Sport for Palestine, Scottish Sport for Palestine, and Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor. ([justpeaceadvocates.ca][1])
Legal advocates involved in the filing said they believe the ICC has an opportunity to establish accountability for global sporting bodies whose decisions may have broader legal implications beyond football governance. ([justpeaceadvocates.ca][1])
### ICC Filing Marks Major Escalation
The ICC filing represents a significant escalation of long-running disputes over Israeli settlement clubs’ participation in international football structures. The complaint alleges that FIFA and UEFA’s policies materially and symbolically support settlement activity, which claimants argue is illegal under international law. ([FIFA Ethics and Regulations Watch][2])
Both football governing bodies have previously faced calls from Palestinian football authorities and international rights groups to suspend Israel or take action regarding settlement-based clubs, though no such sanctions have been imposed. ([CNA][3])
### No Charges Yet, Investigation Uncertain
As of the time of reporting, the ICC has not announced whether it will open a formal investigation, and neither FIFA nor UEFA has issued an official response to the latest complaint.
Under ICC procedures, the filing represents an initial legal communication, and the Prosecutor will determine whether the allegations meet the threshold for investigation.
The development adds to growing political and legal scrutiny surrounding football’s governing institutions and their role in politically sensitive international disputes.