UEFA President Michel Platini
Photo: Eran Kaminski
Israel Football Association Chairman Avi Luzon
Photo: Tal Shahar
UEFA's Platini: Israel could host tournament
Union of European Football Associations president tells reporters at news conference with Israel Football Association head, 'If there will be better stadiums, you will definitely be able to host tournaments in next few years'
Israel could host a European-level football tournament in the near future, UEFA President Michel Platini said Tuesday.
The former France captain said the main obstacle to a UEFA event being held in Israel was the quality of local stadiums, along with security concerns.
"If there will be better stadiums, you will definitely be able to host tournaments in the next few years," Platini told reporters at a news conference with Israel Football Association Chairman Avi Luzon.
Israel, which has been a member of UEFA since 1994, has hosted a European tournament once before: the UEFA Under-17 championships in 2000.
Israeli teams have begun to advance in European club competitions in recent years, with Maccabi Haifa making its second appearance in the Champions League this season.
"There has been an improvement in Israeli football and many Israelis are doing well in Europe," Platini noted.
However, security concerns could be an issue, as in 2002 and 2006, when Israeli teams including Maccabi Haifa were forced to play their home games abroad.
Earlier Tuesday, Platini met with Israeli President Shimon Peres and said soccer promotes "peace, tolerance and friendship."
The men discussed how soccer can bridge communities around the world.
