Ex-Coach Implicated in Massive Soccer Fraud Scheme
Translated & summarized from Mako by baba
Former Ironi Tverya coach Eliran Hodada is a central figure in a massive financial fraud investigation, police revealed in court. Hodada allegedly orchestrated a system of dual contracts to hide tens of millions of shekels in player salaries from authorities over four seasons. Players testified that Hodada explained the split payments, with some salaries paid in cash. Hodada's detention was extended until October 22 amid fears of evidence tampering.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Former coach Eliran Hodada is a central figure in a massive soccer financial fraud investigation.
- Police allege Hodada used dual contracts to hide tens of millions of shekels in player salaries.
- Player testimonies claim Hodada explained the split payment system, including cash transactions.
- Hodada admitted to having a double contract himself, implicating him in personal tax offenses.
- Hodada's detention was extended until October 22 due to suspicion and fear of evidence tampering.
New details have emerged in the ongoing investigation into alleged financial misconduct at the Ironi Tverya soccer club, with police alleging that former coach Eliran Hodada played a central role in a scheme to conceal player salary payments. During a court hearing for the extension of Hodada's arrest, police presented testimonies from club players who claim Hodada was instrumental in a system of dual contracts used to hide payments from budget control authorities and tax agencies.
The police representative stated that Hodada was a "central pivot" in the affair, with his involvement potentially exceeding that of three other detainees. The alleged offenses, which have been systematically carried out over four seasons, are estimated to involve tens of millions of shekels. Players reportedly signed fictitious contracts, with their salaries split between official payments and undisclosed cash transactions.
According to the police, Hodada was aware of and even explained this dual payment system to players, admitting his own involvement in a double contract during questioning. This suggests that tax offenses may extend beyond the club's operations to Hodada personally. The police also revealed that Hodada was involved in salary negotiations and coordination with the club's management.
Hodada's defense attorney argued that his client was merely an employee, not an authorized signatory, and was not responsible for actual fund transfers. The lawyer claimed police lacked evidence of Hodada being a power of attorney or authorized signatory and admitted he did not know if Hodada personally transferred cash.
Despite the defense's arguments, the presiding judge extended Hodada's detention until October 22, citing a reasonable suspicion connecting him to the alleged offenses and a fear of evidence tampering. The arrests of two club owners and the club's finance officer were also extended.
