Israeli Handball Federation Approves Major Reforms to Boost Local Players and Fan Experience

The Israeli Handball Federation has approved significant reforms aimed at strengthening Israeli players, enhancing competition, and increasing fan engagement in the Winner League for men. After a meeting lasting over two and a half hours, the federation decided to reduce the number of foreign players allowed per team from four to three. Teams may sign an additional foreign player by paying a fee of 50,000 shekels, with peripheral teams such as Be'er Sheva, Arad, and Kiryat Motzkin receiving a 50% discount on this fee.

The league format will also change, eliminating the upper division phase and moving directly to playoffs after the regular season. The semifinals will adopt a best-of-five series format, matching the finals, to increase excitement and competitiveness. Additionally, the preseason cup will now be held at the start of the year, with the semifinals and final scheduled during the Sukkot holiday as a festive family event to attract larger audiences.

The federation plans to request automatic qualification spots in European competitions for the winners of the State Cup and the preseason cup, aiming to raise the prestige of local tournaments. Disciplinary regulations will be tightened to combat violence, and a broad reform of the viewing experience will be introduced, including mandatory announcers, DJs, organized player presentations, and the creation of an official anthem for the Winner League.

Federation chairman described the reforms as a major step forward, emphasizing ongoing investments in both men's and women's handball and the overall development of the sport in Israel.