Swiss Fencing Team Turns Backs on Israel During Anthem at European Championships

Drama on the fencing podium at the European Fencing Championship in Tallinn, Estonia, Saturday night, as Switzerland’s under-23 silver medalists literally turned their backs on Israel’s gold-winning team during the medal ceremony. The moment happened while Israel’s national anthem played, giving the whole event a chill that had nothing to do with the Estonian weather.

Israel had just beaten Switzerland 45–34 in the final, but the post-match protest quickly overshadowed the competition. Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa'ar, didn’t hold back, sharply criticizing the Swiss team’s actions.

This isn’t Israel’s first time facing cold shoulders in the sports world. Just last year, Iraq’s national fencing team pulled out of a match against Israel at the World Fencing Championship in Istanbul. Looks like some athletes are fencing more with politics than with sabres.

The tension isn’t just confined to fencing. In soccer, the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) pressed FIFA to investigate—and even consider suspending—Israel’s federation (IFA) over allegations involving international law, discrimination, and Israeli clubs in Palestinian territory. FIFA ultimately decided against suspension, and the IFA shot back, calling the accusations baseless and reaffirming their commitment to global football rules.

So, while some athletes are making their podium protests loud and clear, the sports world’s governing bodies are still sticking to the rules—at least for now. Who knew a fencing tournament could spark so much international intrigue?