Danny Federman Reflects on Family’s 90-Year Legacy After Selling Maccabi Tel Aviv Basketball Shares

Danny Federman publicly addressed the completion of the sale of his family’s shares in Maccabi Tel Aviv basketball club, marking the end of a 90-year family involvement with the team. In a farewell post, Federman described the family’s legacy as more than ownership, calling it a way of life that began with his grandfather, Yitzhak Federman, who captained Maccabi Tel Aviv in the 1930s before Israel’s establishment. He also recalled his father, David Federman, who transformed the club into a private entity, and his own role as CEO during the club’s 2014 EuroLeague victory.

Federman revealed that his family had proposed a new investment plan involving Israeli and American investors, including Eric Stillman, but this plan was halted when the Recanati family exercised their right of first refusal. Consequently, the Recanati family completed the purchase of all shares held by Fedanko Sport, increasing their stake in the club to 58%. This transaction ended the Federman family’s decades-long ownership in Maccabi Tel Aviv.

In his message to the new owners, Federman wished them success but emphasized that while shares can be transferred, the legacy cannot. He affirmed that for his family, Maccabi Tel Aviv was never just about shares or ownership but was always part of their heart and soul. The sale was finalized recently, concluding a significant chapter in the club’s history.