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

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

The next step is a trial at the Sports Anti-Doping Tribunal, expected to take place within weeks to a few months, though the timeline depends on the defendants. If the accused request an expedited process, the case could conclude in about two weeks, but historically such cases take longer. Each defendant may petition for a fast-track hearing, which the agency will consider based on scheduling, case complexity, public interest, and procedural rules.

During the trial, the defendants will present their arguments, and the case will include witness testimonies, affidavits, and expert opinions. The tribunal is overseen 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 for the tribunal.