Maccabi Haifa Owner Seeks Buyer for Club in $100 Million Deal

Maccabi Haifa President and owner Yaakov Shahar, along with the heirs of Israel Kaz, are officially seeking to sell 100% of the club's shares in a deal estimated at $100 million. To facilitate the transaction, the owners have hired the international investment bank Raine Group, which specializes in sports and technology deals worldwide.

Shahar stated in an official club announcement that Maccabi Haifa has been a significant part of his and his family's lives for over 35 years. He expressed his deep affection for the club, its employees, players, and fans, and its place in Israeli sports. Shahar acknowledged his search for a serious entity to advance the club, noting recent interest from various parties. He explained that Raine Group was engaged to find a suitable buyer, cautioning fans against inaccurate media reports and directing them to rely on official club communications.

Following the dramatic announcement, head coach Barak Bakhar commented on the potential sale at a press conference ahead of the team's match against Maccabi Petah Tikva. Bakhar suggested that the sale is inevitable at some point and expressed hope that Shahar could conclude his "amazing tenure" in the best possible way, acknowledging that the process could take a year, two, or more. "We want to give Yaakov a few moments of happiness until he hangs up his boots," Bakhar said.

New details have emerged regarding the potential deal, indicating that Shahar wishes to complete the sale only when the team qualifies for a European competition. The club has experienced significant disappointment in the past two seasons due to failing to qualify for European tournaments. This condition implies the sale could be delayed for several years.