Ex-Coach Kobi Refua Sues Footballer Idan Vered for Defamation

Former professional footballer and coach Kobi Refua is suing player Idan Vered for over NIS 250,000 (approximately $68,000 USD) in damages, alleging defamation. The lawsuit, filed by attorneys Assaf Sharaff and Tal Shahar, stems from comments Vered made about Refua during a live broadcast on the "Sichat Hayom" (Day's Talk) program on ONE channel on September 7th.

According to the lawsuit, Refua, who recently concluded his role as professional director at Bnei Eilat, was allegedly ambushed during what he believed was a routine interview. Vered reportedly accused Refua of yelling at and humiliating players, stating that Bnei Eilat and other Premier League teams were right not to employ him. Vered also claimed Refua had spoken ill of him without reason and contrasted Refua's alleged coaching style with that of a "young and intelligent generation" that does not humiliate or oppress players.

Refua's legal team asserts that Vered's statements severely damaged Refua's reputation, built over decades as a player and coach. The suit claims Vered intentionally sought to harm Refua's livelihood and professional future, causing him personal and emotional distress. The damage was amplified, the suit states, due to the widespread dissemination of the broadcast on television, radio, Instagram, and TikTok, where it went viral and garnered significant negative reactions.

The lawsuit characterizes Vered's remarks as severe libel intended to cause harm. Refua is seeking NIS 264,000 plus legal expenses. A response from Idan Vered was not immediately available.