Israeli Football Player Dahan’s 60-Day Suspension Upheld by Supreme Court

The Israeli Football Association's Supreme Court has rejected Omri Dahan's appeal against his 60-day suspension related to a serious illegal gambling scandal. The ruling, issued on August 27, 2026, confirms the disciplinary court's decision to suspend Dahan from all football activities amid allegations of match-fixing and illegal betting. The three-judge panel, including Asaf Hadassi-Avad, David Yahav, and Nazi Halabi, stated that the evidence against Dahan appears substantial and justified the suspension.

Dahan, a player for Maccabi Haifa who was on loan to Hapoel Ra'anana during the events under investigation, has been under police investigation. Israeli police informed the Football Association that they have gathered significant evidence and intend to file criminal charges against him. The disciplinary court’s chief judge, Noam Liubin, noted a "prima facie evidentiary basis" raising serious concerns about offenses undermining the integrity of the game, including connections to gambling agents and illegal bets on his team's results.

The court emphasized that the suspension is a necessary precaution and does not imply guilt, reaffirming Dahan's presumption of innocence. The final determination of his culpability will depend on forthcoming criminal proceedings. During the suspension, Dahan may request a reduction if circumstances change, and both parties can petition the court again as the investigation progresses.