Maccabiah Games 2026 Officially Open in Jerusalem with 5,000 Jewish Athletes

The 2026 Maccabiah Games, the largest Jewish sporting event worldwide, officially commenced on Wednesday evening in Jerusalem. The opening ceremony featured approximately 5,000 Jewish athletes from over 30 countries. The games will continue until July 13, celebrating Jewish resilience and unity amid current challenges faced by Israel.

This year’s theme, "MORE THAN EVER," reflects the spirit of strength, hope, and mutual support within the Jewish community. A highlight of the ceremony was the lighting of the Maccabiah torch, symbolizing heroism and renewal. The torchbearer was Avitar Zeituni, a disabled IDF veteran and former paratrooper wounded in combat on October 7 at Kibbutz Kissufim, representing recovery and the healing power of sport.

Joining Zeituni were Menashe Zalaka and Sharan Yini, representatives of Israeli football known for leadership and exemplary conduct, and Ofir Shaham, a member of the Israeli rhythmic gymnastics team and silver medalist at the 2024 Paris Olympics, embodying female and national excellence.

The torch was then passed to the main torch lighters: Asaf Yasur, a Paralympic taekwondo champion and gold medalist in Paris, and Inbar Lanir, world judo champion and 2024 Paris Olympic silver medalist, who is currently preparing for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The ceremony underscored the games’ role in fostering Jewish pride and international sportsmanship.