Sports Agent and Maccabi Tel Aviv Sponsor Clash Over Club Ownership

A heated public dispute has erupted on social media platform X between Guy Harel, a player agent and former CEO of Hapoel Jerusalem, and Arik Stilman, CEO of Rapid and the main sponsor of Maccabi Tel Aviv. The conflict began when Stilman alleged that Harel was poised to acquire ownership of Maccabi Tel Aviv alongside the Rekanati family.

Harel vehemently denied the claims, accusing Stilman of spreading falsehoods and stating that Stilman's allegations placed him in a conflict of interest. "All your stories about my ownership, direct/indirect, in Maccabi are your invention," Harel posted.

Instead of pursuing legal action, Harel proposed an unusual resolution: "Let's forget courts and mess. We'll choose an agreed-upon arbiter. I'll provide any document I can, you provide any proof you have. Oh, and one small thing: each of us will deposit a check for one million shekels, and whoever is telling the truth will profit." Harel also made a personal jab, implying he had better uses for the money, such as funding his children's education and travel, and challenged Stilman to provide his proof.

The acrimonious exchange occurs amid Stilman's ongoing efforts to regain influence at Maccabi Tel Aviv, where he was a former owner. Stilman recently submitted a $120 million bid to purchase the Rekanati family's shares, though it is understood they are not currently willing to sell. The situation surrounding control of the club is reportedly becoming increasingly volatile.