MakoSports15:21

Maccabi Haifa Sale Process Intensifies with New Details

Translated & summarized from Mako by baba

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Hebrew · 15 newsrooms covering

Maccabi Haifa is set to be sold, with owner Yaakov Shahar appointing RAINE GROUP to manage the sale of 100% of the club's shares for an estimated $100 million. Journalist Golan Hazani reported that the process began recently and discussed several potential buyers, including Idan Ofer, Oudi Angel, and David Patal, though some have expressed reservations. The club is seeking a swift sale, and Shahar's son is not considered a likely successor due to the public demands of ownership. Regulatory issues may also prevent a deal with Roman Abramovich.

The story in 6 lines · by baba

Maccabi Haifa is being sold for an estimated $100 million, with 100% of shares up for grabs.
Owner Yaakov Shahar has appointed RAINE GROUP to manage the sale process.
Journalist Golan Hazani provided new details on potential buyers and the sale timeline.
Several businessmen, including Idan Ofer and Oudi Angel, are being considered as buyers.
The club is seeking a swift sale, with a "buy now" approach.
Regulatory issues may prevent a deal with Roman Abramovich.

Maccabi Haifa Sale Process Intensifies with New Details — Editorial illustration generated by baba News, not a photograph of the event.

Maccabi Haifa is reportedly on the verge of a new era, as owner Yaakov Shahar has officially enlisted RAINE GROUP to manage the sale of 100% of the club's shares, with an estimated valuation of $100 million. "Calcalist" journalist Golan Hazani, who initially reported on Shahar's move, provided further details, stating the sale process began about a month ago.

Hazani discussed potential buyers, noting that Idan Ofer, who previously expressed disinterest, has not yet committed. He highlighted Ofer's successful investment in Atletico Madrid, where he doubled his investment, suggesting a similar lucrative opportunity exists with Maccabi Haifa. Shahar is reportedly seeking a swift sale, emphasizing a "buy now" approach rather than a lengthy evaluation period.

Other individuals circulating as potential buyers include David Patal and Oudi Angel, with Angel possibly partnering with tech investors. Patal, however, has reportedly stated the club is "not for me," citing the intense pressure involved in managing a football team. Businessman Moshe Kahlon and others, possibly including Kobi Maimon, are also mentioned as potential figures, though Hazani expressed uncertainty about their current involvement.

The journalist also considered other prominent businessmen, such as Mitch Goldhar, Yoav Katz, Ross Kestin, and Edmund Safra, assessing their potential fit and financial capacity. He suggested that any new owner would aim for profitability, viewing the club as a business asset that can enhance their public profile and facilitate other business dealings. Alona and Eli Barkat, and Abramov are also mentioned in this context.

Regarding the possibility of Shahar's son, Orr Shahar, taking over, Hazani explained that Orr is not perceived as someone who would step into the public spotlight required of a modern club owner. The current media landscape demands a more visible leader than perhaps Orr Shahar is prepared to be. Hazani also dismissed the idea of an IPO, suggesting a sale is more likely given the club's potential and price, and noting the complexities and unproven success of publicly listing a sports team.

Finally, Hazani addressed the possibility of Roman Abramovich acquiring the club, but cited regulatory issues as a significant obstacle, making such a deal unlikely.