Maccabi Netanya Prepares for Football Association Tribunal Over Player Eligibility

Maccabi Netanya is preparing to present its case before the Football Association's tribunal on Wednesday, October 26, 2023. The club's CEO, Gil Lev, along with legal counsel Roi Rozen and Tal Shegev, will attend the hearing. The case concerns a complaint filed by Maccabi Netanya against Hapoel Petah Tikva for allegedly fielding 12 ineligible players simultaneously during a match that ended in a 1-1 draw.

Maccabi Netanya is attending as an interested party, not the defendant, but will be permitted to argue its case due to having initiated the complaint. The club has compiled numerous past precedents involving the illegal use of players, which resulted in technical losses, to present to the tribunal. Given the case's significance, two judges will preside over the proceedings, although this is not mandatory. In the event of a disagreement between the judges, the more lenient ruling will prevail according to regulations.

Separately, player Maor Levi has apologized to coach Roni Levi for liking a post critical of the coach without realizing it. Following a disciplinary committee hearing, a decision on whether Maor Levi will start in the upcoming away game against Ironi Tiberias is expected by the end of the week, though he is confirmed to be included in the squad.