Former Maccabi Tel Aviv Coach Roni Dalia Makes Rare Public Appearance in Norway

Roni Dalia, the former head coach of Maccabi Tel Aviv, was recently seen attending an early-round Norwegian Cup football match, marking a rare public appearance since his departure from Israeli football. Dalia left his coaching role following allegations of sexual harassment against a taxi driver late at night. Although he achieved professional success, the incident led to his disappearance from the public eye both in Israel and his native Norway.

At the match, Dalia watched alongside about 600 spectators as his hometown team, Orad, lost a 3-0 lead to Kolins. Dalia grew up in Orad's academy and played for the club in his first senior season but never coached there and has not coached in Norway since 2020. Currently, he is not expected to return to coaching.

Following the harassment allegations, Dalia issued a public apology, expressing regret and taking responsibility. He explained that the incident occurred early on a Thursday morning during a taxi ride home after drinking too much. The Tel Aviv District Attorney's Office closed the criminal case, determining the incident was borderline in terms of criminality. Dalia apologized to the taxi driver, the club staff, and fans, stating he intends to learn from the situation and improve his conduct professionally.