Maccabi Tel Aviv Co-Owner Richard Daiz Slams 'Hypocrisy' Amid Ownership Dispute

Richard Daiz, a co-owner of Maccabi Tel Aviv basketball club, has issued a new statement addressing the ongoing internal conflict over the team's ownership. Daiz announced on Sunday that he has filed an urgent request with the Tel Aviv District Court and initiated arbitration proceedings. He stated this action was taken with a heavy heart after co-owner Udi Recanati canceled a shareholders' meeting and unilaterally transferred 7.5% of the club's shares to Jason Levien.

Daiz claims this transfer, which he asserts violates the shareholders' agreement, is the latest in a series of breaches aimed at concealing attempts to transfer control of the club to Levien. He also responded to a statement from Shimon Mizrahi, the club's chairman, acknowledging Mizrahi's legendary status and deep love for Maccabi, but disagreeing with his characterization of partners.

"To defraud a partner and plot against him, and then accuse him of disloyalty because he chose to be loyal to Maccabi and not to the plotters, is hypocrisy," Daiz wrote. He emphasized his 13 years of unwavering support for the club without seeking publicity, always working to mend rifts among partners.

Recognizing the significant interest from fans, Daiz expressed regret over the internal struggle distracting from the upcoming season. He stated a preference for resolving legal matters through courts and arbitrators, not public discourse, and urged fans to focus their support on the team and its coach, Oded Kattash, and captain, John DiBartolomeo, on the court.

Daiz concluded by expressing hope that "calm and logic will prevail" in resolving the ownership issues, but stressed the importance of unity in supporting the team regardless of the disputes. "Yalla Maccabi!" he added.