Israeli Football Players Suspended Amid Doping Investigation, Facing Months Out

On July 5, 2026, the Israeli National Anti-Doping Agency announced the temporary suspension of several players and staff from Ironi Tiberias football club amid a doping investigation. The suspended individuals include players David Kaltins, Guy Hadida, Niv Gottlieb, Kendo Mamdo Samba, Yonatan Teper, coach Eliran Hodeda, technical manager Chen Sol, and fitness coach Shlomi Vardro. This suspension is a precautionary measure under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, pending further hearings and investigations.

The suspended parties have been summoned to hearings where they can present their defense in an administrative process, which is not a trial but a preliminary step before a formal hearing at the Anti-Doping Agency's tribunal. This tribunal operates under WADA's supervision and can impose suspensions of up to four years. Separately, the Israeli Football Association's disciplinary court, led by prosecutor Gilad Bergman, may also pursue charges against the suspects.

Doping investigations typically take weeks or months, during which the accused cannot participate in sports activities. While athletes often seek to expedite these proceedings, the priority remains a thorough investigation to ensure fairness for clean athletes and uphold sports integrity. Initially, there was consideration to hold the hearings abroad, but it was decided to conduct them in Israel to allow the accused to present their case in Hebrew.

The case's outcome remains uncertain, but the suspensions mean the involved players and staff could be sidelined for an extended period, impacting their careers and the club's performance in the Israeli Premier League.