Hapoel Tel Aviv Restructures Ownership, Reduces Ofir Yanai's Stake to 40%

Hapoel Tel Aviv announced a significant change in its ownership structure on Friday, altering the share distribution within Yanai Sport, which holds 81% of Edom Management Cell. Ofir Yanai, previously the main controlling owner, will now hold only 40% of Yanai Sport's shares. The remaining 60% will be equally divided among Gili Re'anen, Miki Malka, and Alan Howard, each holding 20%. This shift transforms the club's leadership from a single-owner model to a partnership among four shareholders, with increased involvement from Re'anen, Malka, and Howard in management and decision-making.

The club emphasized that this move aims to improve relations with fans by signaling a broader ownership base rather than control by one individual, addressing recent tensions and encouraging supporters to return to the stands. Despite the reduction in Yanai's stake, he remains a significant shareholder and, along with the others, has committed to continued substantial investment in the club. The club's daily management will now be led by chairman Stav Shacham, who will operate on behalf of all shareholders to ensure professional, stable, and independent management alongside joint strategic decisions.

Structurally, Yanai Sport still holds 81% of Edom Management Cell, with the Hapoel Osishkin Tel Aviv association retaining 19%. Yanai explained that his demanding role as CEO of Nofar Energy limits his ability to remain involved in daily club operations. He welcomed the deeper commitment from Re'anen, Malka, and Howard and expressed confidence in the new partnership model. Re'anen, Malka, and Howard each highlighted their long-term commitment and belief in the club's potential, emphasizing shared responsibility and cooperation.

Chairman Shacham outlined his expanded authority and responsibility to manage the club on behalf of all owners, fostering unity and ensuring decisions serve the club's best interests. He also stressed the importance of strengthening ties with fans and the community to build a stable, successful club. The ownership restructuring reflects a strategic effort to stabilize Hapoel Tel Aviv's future both on and off the field.