Oslo: The Norwegian Football Federation has announced its decision to donate ticket revenue from an upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Israel to Gaza.

According to Anadolu Agency, the federation stated that the proceeds from the Group I qualifier between Norway and Israel, set to take place on Oct. 11 at Oslo's Ullevaal Stadion, will be allocated for humanitarian aid in Gaza. The decision underscores a response to ongoing humanitarian challenges in the region.

Norwegian Football Federation President Lise Klaveness emphasized the federation's stance, highlighting the impact of prolonged suffering and attacks that civilians in Gaza have experienced. "Neither we nor other organizations can remain indifferent to the humanitarian suffering and disproportionate attacks that the civilian population in Gaza has been subjected to for a long time," Klaveness stated. She further expressed the federation's intent to support a humanitarian organization actively providing emergency aid in Gaza.

In response, the Israeli soccer federation urged its Norwegian counterpart to also denounce the attacks by the Palestinian group Hamas that occurred on Oct. 7, 2023. A statement published by The Telegraph from the Israeli federation stressed that Norway should ensure the donated funds are not channeled to terrorist organizations or activities such as whale hunting.

Ticket sales for the anticipated match are scheduled to commence on Aug. 25, with the federation's decision attracting significant attention and discussion regarding the role of sports in humanitarian efforts.