Maccabi Haifa President Yaakov Shahar Seeks $100 Million Sale

Maccabi Haifa President Yaakov Shahar and his partners are officially seeking to sell 100% of the football club's shares in a deal estimated at around $100 million. To facilitate the transaction, the owners have hired the international investment bank Raine Group, which specializes in global sports and technology deals. The proposed business model involves assembling a group of buyers, with a primary investor, a Jewish billionaire, expected to hold 51% of the club. A secondary group of investors, holding the remaining 49%, is anticipated to include prominent business figures, particularly from the "Greentech" forum, an association of senior high-tech professionals who support the team. Individual investors from this group are expected to contribute between $5 million and $10 million.

Shahar confirmed the reports on Wednesday, stating that Maccabi Haifa has been a significant part of his life and his family's for over 35 years. He acknowledged that it is "no secret" he has been looking for a serious entity to advance the club and that he has recently received inquiries from interested parties. He explained that he hired THE RAINE GROUP to find a suitable buyer, cautioning that many media reports and assessments are inaccurate. Shahar emphasized that the club will only be transferred to someone capable of continuing its legacy and leading it to further achievements. Until then, he will continue to support, invest in, and manage the club with pride.

The potential sale marks the end of a significant era in Israeli sports history. Shahar, 84, who became a sponsor in the 1980s and acquired full management rights in 1992, has led the club for approximately 35 years, an unprecedented tenure in local and European football. Under his ownership, Maccabi Haifa transformed into a sporting and business empire, achieving numerous titles, including historic championships and cups, and reaching the Champions League group stage twice. The club also established advanced training facilities and a model organizational culture during his leadership.