Source:REUTERS/Kylie Cooper
[Saba Sports News] Recently, dozens of players, including French footballer Paul Pogba, issued a joint petition through the “Athletes 4 Peace” organization, calling on UEFA to suspend Israel. The main catalyst for this petition is the killing of Suleiman Obeid, known as the “Palestinian Pelé.” According to a statement from the Palestinian Football Association, he was killed during an attack by Israeli forces. Although UEFA posted a tribute to Obeid, it deliberately omitted the details of his death, sparking dissatisfaction among the player community. This incident once again highlights the close connection between sports and politics. Although the sports world often emphasizes that “sports are separate from politics,” in reality, sports often struggle to remain detached from political influence. This joint appeal by players and the choice facing UEFA demonstrate that sporting events have become a stage for political gamesmanship.