Israeli football is facing a fresh scandal after reports that players of Ironi Tiberias may have received banned intravenous infusions shortly before a decisive relegation playoff match against M.S. Ashdod. The Israeli Football Association has opened a formal investigation, and if the allegations are proven, the club could face severe sanctions in Israel and abroad.
According to the reports, the infusions were allegedly given during a team training session on Thursday, three days before the match at Yud-Alef Stadium. Tiberias then beat Ashdod 3-0, moved above them in the table, and pushed Ashdod below the relegation line. Investigators have reportedly gathered recordings, WhatsApp messages, photos, and documents, and have summoned club officials and staff for questioning.
The central concern is the volume of the alleged infusions. Published details say 1,000 ml bags were documented, while WADA rules generally prohibit infusions of more than 100 ml within 12 hours, except in rare medical cases. The reports also say this was not an isolated incident, but a group event allegedly involving 14 players and staff members. Possible penalties being considered include point deductions, relegation, bans from official competitions, and individual punishments. The findings may also be referred to FIFA and WADA.
M.S. Ashdod has filed an official complaint through attorney Amit Hadad, asking for a full probe and review of the evidence. The Football Association said it received the complaint, the matter is being investigated by professional officials, and WADA has been informed. Ironi Tiberias said coach Eliran Hudda is currently on a family vacation abroad, will respond if needed after returning to Israel, and that the club fully supports him while insisting any actions taken, if any, were lawful.
