Polish Club Owner Condemns Israeli Team as 'Genocidal' Ahead of Conference League Match

Ahead of the UEFA Conference League third qualifying round match between Hapoel Tel Aviv and Poland's Katowice on August 12, 2026, the Iranian owner of another Polish club, Pogon Szczecin, sparked controversy with a provocative social media post. Alex Haditaghi accused Hapoel Tel Aviv of representing "the Israeli state committing genocide" and called on Katowice players to "play with courage, rage, and without fear" to "liberate Palestine." He condemned Israel's actions as occupation and mass killing, rejecting any legitimacy for Israeli teams in UEFA competitions.

Haditaghi's post included a call for Katowice to carry the hopes and prayers of millions affected by what he described as Israel's "cruel occupation machine," urging players to feel the global attention on the match. The statement also expressed solidarity with Iran and criticized UEFA for allowing Israeli participation while the conflict continues.

In response, Shinu Zohar, chairman of the Israel Football Association, denounced the remarks as hateful, racist, and incendiary. He announced that the association's legal department would file an official complaint with UEFA against Haditaghi. Zohar emphasized that there is no place in football for such divisive rhetoric and expressed support for Hapoel Tel Aviv's success in the competition.

The match between Hapoel Tel Aviv and Katowice is set to take place on the evening of August 12, 2026, with heightened tensions due to the political statements preceding the game. UEFA's response to the complaint and any disciplinary measures remain pending.