Israeli Football Leagues Ban Political Activity Ahead of Elections

The Israeli Football Leagues Administration has issued a sweeping ban on political activity by professional clubs and their representatives ahead of the upcoming Knesset elections. In a letter sent to the clubs, Chairman Erez Kalfon clarified that any involvement in election campaigning, whether on or off the field, is strictly prohibited.

The directive explicitly forbids actions that could be construed as electioneering, including club visits to candidates, taking photos with politicians, or allowing political figures into locker rooms or onto the field. The ban also extends to any political advertising within stadium grounds, covering fixed or temporary signage, banners, flags, distribution of campaign materials, LED screens, electronic boards, digital advertising, and public address systems.

Kalfon emphasized that such political involvement by football clubs contravenes the regulations of FIFA, UEFA, and the Israel Football Association. He warned of the potential damage to Israeli football resulting from its politicization, stating that "there is no need to elaborate on the damage that could be caused to Israeli football as a result of the politicization of football and the political involvement of a football club, or anyone acting on its behalf, both within and outside the field."

Clubs are instructed to ensure that all affiliated parties and those utilizing their advertising spaces also adhere to the ban and do not engage in electioneering. The clubs were asked to disseminate these guidelines to all relevant personnel.