Euro 2025 qualifier at Hampden Park delayed after protester in a “Red Card For Israel” shirt chains himself to goalpost

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A demonstrator wearing a t-shirt reading
A demonstrator wearing a t-shirt reading "Red card for Israel" chained himself to the goal post prior to the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 League B Group 2 qualifying football match between Scotland and Israel at Hampden Park stadium in Glasgow, Scotland, on May 31, 2024. (Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN / AFP)

Friday’s UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 qualifier between Scotland and Israel was delayed after a protester tied himself to one of the goalposts at Hampden Park.

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The protester was wearing a shirt featuring the words “Red Card For Israel” in protest against the country’s military operation in Gaza.

He attached himself to the goal frame by his neck using a chain and a heavy-duty lock.

The game – which was broadcast live on BBC Scotland – had been due to start at 7.05pm.

It eventually kicked off at 7.35pm – a quarter of an hour after police had removed the protester.

A demonstrator wearing a t-shirt reading
A protester wearing a “Red Card For Israel” shirt delayed kick-off at Hampden Park on Friday

Friday’s match was played behind closed doors due to “the potential for planned disruptions”.

It is understood that the protester may have gained access to the stadium by disguising himself as a member of security staff.

There were also protests outside of Hampden Park before Friday’s game.

Around 400 people gathered near to the doors of the stadium’s main stand.

Some were seen carrying small coffins to signify the children killed in Gaza.

Others waved Palestine flags.

Protesters pictured outside of Hampden Park before a UEFA Women's Euro 2025 qualifier between Scotland and Israel in May 2024
Hundreds of protesters had earlier gathered outside of the stadium’s main stand
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