Former Minister Issawi Freij Runs for Israeli Football Association Presidency

Issawi Freij, a former Israeli minister, has announced his candidacy for the presidency of the Israeli Football Association in the upcoming elections. He will lead an independent list, with Liad Ilani, former deputy and acting mayor of Ramat Gan and current city council member, as his running mate. Despite their entry into the race, the Football Association expects Freij's chances of winning to be low, as the Hapoel Center is likely to support the incumbent chairman, Shino Zohar.

Freij previously chaired M.S. Kafr Qasim, led the Sports Lobby in the Knesset, and served as Minister for Regional Cooperation. He initiated several projects aimed at strengthening ties between different social sectors through football. Ilani has held portfolios for sports and education in Ramat Gan municipality and has driven significant efforts to promote local sports, develop facilities, and support clubs and athletes.

In his official statement, Freij emphasized football's role as a unifying language for billions worldwide, especially amid societal divisions. He pledged to lead a genuine change in the Football Association to restore professionalism, transparency, and public trust. Freij aims to leverage his governmental experience to bring European football competitions back to Israel and ensure that all Toto and Winner funds are invested in advancing Israeli sports, focusing on youth, coaches, infrastructure, and clubs to build a professional and successful football environment that fosters social cohesion.