Six Tiberias Football Staff Face Doping Trial With Possible Four-Year Suspensions

The National Anti-Doping Agency has filed a serious indictment against six staff members of the Ironi Tiberias football club following allegations of doping given to players at the end of the 2025/26 season. The accused include head coach Eliran Hodeda, technical manager Chen Sol, club manager Gabriel Cohen, team manager Michael (Miki) Beitan, staff member Aviv Jibli, and fitness coach Shlomi Vedrar. The agency is seeking suspensions ranging from four years up to lifetime bans, depending on each individual's involvement.

The next step is a trial before the Sports Anti-Doping Tribunal, expected to take place within weeks to a few months. The timing depends on the defendants, who may request an expedited process potentially lasting about two weeks, though historically such cases usually take longer. Each defendant can petition for a fast-track hearing, which the agency will consider based on scheduling, the dispute's nature, public interest, and procedural rules.

During the trial, the defendants will present their arguments, followed by examination of witnesses, affidavits, and expert opinions. The tribunal is presided over by Dr. Isser Birger, who has served as the tribunal's chairman since 2022. Dr. Birger holds a law doctorate from Yale University and is a lawyer at the Meitar law firm, from which he appoints the panel of judges. This case marks a significant development in Israeli football's ongoing battle against doping violations.