Beitar Jerusalem Accuses Maccabi Haifa CEO Itzik Ovadia of Undermining Club in President's Award Dispute

Beitar Jerusalem issued a strong public statement on August 17, 2026, condemning Maccabi Haifa CEO Itzik Ovadia amid controversy over the President's Award competition. The dispute arose during the award selection process, which was closely contested between Beitar Jerusalem and Maccabi Haifa. Although Maccabi Haifa initially led the voting, a re-vote was held, resulting in Beitar Jerusalem winning the award from the capital city.

Following the decision, Beitar Jerusalem accused Ovadia of opposing the committee's choice and sending threatening messages aimed at intimidating the community prize process. The club labeled Ovadia as a "small CEO" in their official statement, criticizing his conduct and influence during the award deliberations.

The award committee included notable figures such as Andy Ram, Batel Gerbi, Nurit Sharvit, Itzik Sasportas, Nir Chen, Oren Avraham, and Ashraf Halabi, who collectively decided to grant the President's Award to Beitar Jerusalem. The incident highlights tensions between the two clubs and raises questions about the integrity of the award process.