Hapoel Ironi Tiberias Faces Potential Leniency in Doping Case, Seeks New Signings

Hapoel Ironi Tiberias is navigating multiple challenges, including a doping investigation, legal proceedings, and transfer window activity. Five players investigated by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), Guy Hadida, Sambinha, David Keltjens, Niv Gottlieb, and Yonatan Teper, have reportedly failed to provide satisfactory answers regarding the dosage and timing of their infusions. Club officials believe this lack of clarity may hinder the Football Association's disciplinary court from imposing a severe penalty for prohibited substance use, potentially leading to a charge of improper procedure instead. This could result in a lighter sentence than initially anticipated.

The club is preparing for further evidence hearings next month and insists that the investigator from the Football Association's investigative company, Dean Perger, must attend and be questioned. Simultaneously, Tiberias is actively seeking to strengthen its squad before the transfer window closes. They have expressed interest in Maccabi Netanya's French midfielder, Willian Cipprian, though his acquisition depends on Netanya covering a portion of his salary. The team is also attempting to sign Michael Ohana, a free agent, but this move is contingent on Itamar Shviro's potential departure, as Ohana would not accept a reduction in his salary. Ohana could join even after the transfer window closes.

In preparation for an important relegation battle, Tiberias is gearing up for a match against Hapoel Jerusalem on Tuesday. The team will be without left-back Daniel Golani for approximately a month due to a groin tear.