Former Basketball Ireland CEO resigns from FIBA Europe board due to Israel's involement

"A small gesture but my conscience is clear. Please God, respite and reparation will come in 2026 to the children of Gaza," he said.

Former Basketball Ireland chief executive Bernard O’Byrne has resigned from his position on the board of FIBA Europe due to Israel's continued participation in their competitions. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile.

Former Basketball Ireland chief executive Bernard O’Byrne has resigned from his position on the board of FIBA Europe due to Israel's continued participation in their competitions.

O'Byrne, who was also the CEO of the FAI previously, wrote to FIBA Europe in July seeking for Israel to be banned after Basketball Ireland called for a “full and open discussion” on their involvement.

The Irish’s women’s team faced Israel in a Eurobasket qualifier in November although it was played in a neutral venue as Basketball Ireland insisted they would not fulfil the fixture otherwise.

O’Byrne ultimately saw his proposal to suspend Israel rejected in November and on New Year's Day, he took to Facebook to confirm he had resigned as a FIBA Europe board member.

"Firstly, a very Happy New Year to all my friends and family home and abroad.

"On a less positive note, I have resigned as a FIBA Europe board member following the rejection of my proposal to suspend Israel from all basketball activity in light of the genocide in Gaza.

"A small gesture but my conscience is clear. Please God, respite and reparation will come in 2026 to the children of Gaza."