Relatives of Israeli songwriter Naomi Shemer objected Tuesday morning to a new recording of her 1981 Maccabiah song by Nuno and Jimbo J, saying the work had been used without permission and against the law. They argued that the use of the song without prior authorization violated moral rights and was “not proper” for two successful and respected artists to use Shemer’s work without consent.
The controversy began after the new version of “Shir HaMaccabiah” was released. The adaptation, created for this year’s event, added new verses and several English lines. The family said the version had been made without the required approval.
Later, the family and the organizers of Maccabiah 2026 announced that they had reached an understanding. In a joint statement, they said the updated arrangement, released under the title “Sport,” was created at the Maccabiah’s request out of artistic respect and a desire to connect generations through music. They said a direct, open and respectful discussion made it clear that an error had been made in good faith and without intent to harm Shemer’s rights or musical legacy.
According to the statement, the Shemer family understood the creative intent behind the project and the organizers’ wish to honor the past while offering a contemporary artistic interpretation. As part of the agreement, the credits were corrected to properly acknowledge the original work. Jimbo J had not responded by the time of publication, and Nuno’s side declined to comment.
