WADA Proposes Reduced Plea Deal in Ironi Tiberias Doping Case Amid Dispute

The hearing phase in the doping allegations against Ironi Tiberias football club began on July 9, 2026, with the club claiming a significant development. According to club representatives, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has withdrawn its main charge and offered a reduced plea deal to the coaching staff. This shift follows a medical opinion presented during the hearing indicating that players received approximately 45 milliliters of saline solution, well below the 100 milliliters threshold considered a violation.

Ironi Tiberias stated that WADA proposed a lenient plea based solely on an "attempted offense" charge. However, coaching staff members Eliran Hodeda and Chen Sol rejected the offer, arguing that the charge is unprecedented and weak, emphasizing that no banned substances were involved, no procedural breaches occurred, and no athletic advantage was gained. The club also accused rival team M.S. Ashdod of exerting undue external pressure, suggesting the case was politically motivated due to Ashdod's relegation.

The club expressed confidence in their innocence and criticized the pressure and threats faced by players to alter their original testimonies. They trust the judicial system to recognize the agency's flawed conduct. Previously, it was reported that Eliran Hodeda admitted during the hearing to initiating the saline infusions. Despite players receiving infusions from a one-liter saline container, the club denies any administration exceeding 100 milliliters, contrary to WADA's claims.

Football Association officials are expected to recommend Hodeda accept the plea deal, which could result in a suspension ranging from one to two years if he takes responsibility. The case remains under close scrutiny as the league and legal processes continue.