Recanati Family Takes Control of Maccabi Tel Aviv in Major Ownership Shakeup

Maccabi Tel Aviv basketball club underwent a significant ownership change as the Recanati family acquired full control by purchasing all shares held by the Fedanco Sport company, owned by the Federman family. This transaction, finalized on July 7, 2026, gave the Recanati family 58% ownership of the club, immediately making them the primary controlling shareholders. The Federman family, which previously held 29% of the club's shares, no longer has any ownership or veto rights.

The shift was triggered by the entry of Erik Shtilman, CEO of Rapid and the club's main sponsor, who bought half of Fedanco Sport's shares (14.5%) on May 26, 2026. This move activated a "Buy Me Buy You" clause, allowing other shareholders, including the Recanati family, to purchase the Federman family's shares at a pre-agreed valuation. The Recanati family exercised this option, avoiding prolonged negotiations.

The deal also revealed the club's valuation at approximately $172.5 million, based on the Recanati family's $50 million investment for 29% of the shares. Current ownership is divided as follows: Recanati family 58%, Richard Deitsch 17.5%, Shimon Mizrahi 14.5%, and Ben Ashkenazi 10%. Rapid will continue as the club's main sponsor under a seven-year agreement worth about $3 million per season.

The decision to consolidate ownership came after years of internal disagreements among shareholders over financial and professional issues, including disputes over player contracts, coaching decisions, and notably the signing of player Yam Madar. These conflicts affected team management and roster building, with some shareholders opposing key decisions such as extending coach Oded Katash's contract.

With the Recanati family now holding majority control, decision-making is expected to become more streamlined, reducing internal conflicts. The family has pledged to invest substantial funds to enhance the club's financial and competitive standing, aiming to position Maccabi Tel Aviv among Europe's elite basketball teams. Other shareholders are also expected to contribute significant investments going forward.