Issawi Frej Vows to Pursue FA Chair Election Amidst Allegations

Issawi Frej, a candidate for the chairmanship of the Football Association, stated he is determined to hold democratic elections and claims to have secured enough votes to challenge the incumbent, Shino Zuarz. Frej, speaking on a sports radio program, criticized the current state of Israeli football, citing pervasive violence, racism, and corruption.

Frej asserted that he has gathered more than the required 17 votes and will submit his candidacy, urging against fear of democracy. He expressed confidence, stating he has the backing of various clubs, having met with their representatives over several months. According to Frej, no club has expressed satisfaction with the Football Association's performance during the current term.

He further alleged that while some individuals expressed dissatisfaction with the association's conduct, they felt compelled to vote for Zuarz. Frej specifically criticized the recent alliance between the Hapoel and Maccabi centers, deeming it an illegal move aimed at consolidating power and distributing positions, which he believes will set football back. He argued that the clubs, not the centers, are the legitimate decision-makers in the association.

Frej accused the centers of fearing the loss of their influence and using the clubs, particularly those in lower leagues, as leverage. He highlighted that the centers receive substantial funding based on the clubs under their umbrella and warned against the intimidation tactics allegedly employed against club managements. Frej emphasized his commitment to tackling racism and violence, and to rebuilding youth programs as crucial for the future of Israeli football.

He also commented on the dominance of Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israeli sports, suggesting it controls both football and basketball. Regarding the potential reintroduction of the National League, Frej noted that while clubs desire reserve teams, it could lower the standard of other leagues. He urged clubs, especially those in lower divisions, not to be intimidated and to exercise their right to vote, emphasizing that democracy and fair elections are essential for the sport's progress. Frej also called on the Football Association leadership to act fairly and approve his candidacy documents legally, without playing games to aid the opposition.