Israeli Sports Agency Files Severe Doping Charges Against Ironi Tiberias Staff

The National Anti-Doping Agency in Israel has filed serious charges against six members of the Ironi Tiberias football club following an investigation into unauthorized intravenous infusions given to players at the end of the 2025/26 season. The accused include head coach Eliran Hodeda, technical manager Chen Sol, owner Michael Beitan, team manager Gabriel Cohen, staff member Aviv Jibly, and fitness coach Shlomi Vadraro. The agency demands lifetime bans or suspensions ranging from four to eight years, depending on each individual's level of involvement, as well as financial penalties of at least 500,000 shekels to cover investigation costs.

According to the complaint, in late April 2026, the club administered IV infusions to players without medical justification, doctor approval, or proper medical supervision, potentially exceeding 100 milliliters within 12 hours, violating global anti-doping codes. Hodeda allegedly ordered players to receive the infusions and conditioned participation in a subsequent match on receiving them. Sol was involved in procuring equipment and coordinating the procedure, while Beitan promoted the idea and attempted to influence witnesses. Cohen supervised the event, Jibly assisted and failed to stop it, and Vadraro was aware and present during the infusions.

The agency accuses the defendants of using or attempting to use prohibited methods, possession and trafficking of banned substances, aiding and abetting, obstructing proceedings, and spreading false information. The premeditated nature, health risks, and attempts to coordinate testimonies are cited as aggravating factors. However, sources indicate the agency’s harsh demands also aim to pressure the accused into plea agreements, offering shorter suspensions of four to six months in exchange for cooperation.

Notably, the five suspended players, Wahib Habiballah, David Kaltins, Ben Wehba, Eddy Gottlieb, and Sambinia, are not included in this indictment and face shorter proposed suspensions of about three months. The accused parties have 20 days to respond, negotiate settlements, or contest the charges. The case may proceed to both Israeli courts and FIFA, with the club disputing the investigation’s validity. Ironi Tiberias stated it will fully cooperate and pursue the matter to the end, while the Football Association has been given grounds to formally charge the club.