Miki Koppel Defends Controversial Remarks About Hapoel Tel Aviv

Miki Koppel, a sponsor for Maccabi Tel Aviv and the referees' association, has reignited controversy over remarks he made in August. A short clip circulating on social media, taken from the "Ani Maccabi" podcast, features Koppel expressing intense animosity towards Hapoel Tel Aviv.

In the clip, Koppel states, "I hate Hapoel Tel Aviv. Record me. Professional only? No! I hate. Only football? No. Hate. As long as they sing 'May there be a Holocaust for Maccabi Tel Aviv,' as long as they throw balls during the game. As long as I'm afraid to leave my parking spot for a youth game at Wolfson because I know I might not come home, I hate them with a deathly hate."

Following the backlash, Koppel clarified his statements on the "Chamesh Ba'Avir" program. He explained that the clip was taken out of context and unfairly presented. Koppel asserted that he had previously praised Hapoel Tel Aviv's management, described their fans as the most colorful and loyal, and suggested they could draw large crowds even in a lower league. He reiterated his concerns about the "Holocaust for Maccabi" chants and the safety issues at youth games, citing an incident at Wolfson where he felt he needed security to leave.

Koppel also addressed the online abuse he has received, including death wishes for his children, stating that his hatred is directed at those who engage in such behavior and use offensive language. He mentioned that in the same podcast, he praised Salim Tuama for his contributions after the October 7th attacks. Koppel concluded by questioning how Maccabi Tel Aviv owner Mitch Goldhar would react if similar "Holocaust" curses were directed at his club, suggesting he would shut it down.