Hapoel and Maccabi Umm al-Fahm Unite to Form Single Club, Boost Youth Development

The football clubs Hapoel Umm al-Fahm and Maccabi Umm al-Fahm have officially merged after years of discussions, aiming to create a unified team and enhance youth development programs. The merger, which intensified in recent months, will see the combined entity operate under a single management structure.

According to Hapoel Umm al-Fahm spokesperson Basel Jabarin, the unification extends beyond the senior team to encompass a future vision for youth squads. These younger teams will be supported by the Umm al-Fahm municipality, with the goal of nurturing talent for the senior club.

Umm al-Fahm Mayor Dr. Samir Mahamid stated that the municipality views the merger as a model for collaborative work within the city, emphasizing its educational and sporting importance. The municipality plans to provide logistical, financial, and professional support to the youth teams, aiming to build a comprehensive sports system from young age groups up to the first team.

The unified team will complete the current season with existing commitments, while the youth teams will be fully integrated starting next season. Jabarin noted that while both clubs could have continued independently, their leadership determined that pooling resources would be more effective. The new entity will represent Umm al-Fahm as one team under a single banner.

The merged team is scheduled to play its next home game on Thursday against Karmel, with calls for strong community support. Mayor Mahamid announced that the 2026 budget includes 300,000 shekels for sports teams, with potential for increased funding for the unified club. Both Jabarin and Mahamid stressed the importance of public attendance and support for the team's success, highlighting a future plan to build a competitive team capable of reaching higher leagues.