Footballer Omer Dahan Demands Immediate Rejection of Suspension Request Amid Match-Fixing Allegations

Omer Dahan, an Israeli football player, has strongly opposed the Israel Football Association's (IFA) request to suspend him from all activities pending a criminal investigation into alleged match-fixing. Represented by attorney Amir Cohen, Dahan submitted a formal response to the disciplinary court demanding the request be dismissed outright. The defense argues that the IFA's suspension request lacks a legal basis and contradicts the association's own regulations, which only allow suspension during an active investigation for up to 60 days or after a disciplinary indictment is filed. Since over 75 days have passed since the investigation began, the defense claims the disciplinary court no longer has authority to suspend Dahan without formal charges.

Dahan's legal team also highlights serious evidentiary flaws and violations of his fundamental rights, noting that the IFA relied on one-sided evidence submitted without granting Dahan access to review it. They emphasize that presenting evidence unilaterally in a disciplinary proceeding is unlawful and undermines due process. Furthermore, the defense points to contradictions between police statements and media reports suggesting the investigation against Dahan was closed without charges, as authorities concluded he was not involved beyond betting on matches himself.

The timing of the IFA's suspension request is also criticized as deliberately delayed and lacking good faith. The association was aware of Dahan's arrest and release since June 2026 but only filed the suspension request on August 17, shortly after news broke of his expected signing with Hapoel Kfar Shalem. The defense claims this delay was intended to harm Dahan's professional opportunities and income.

In conclusion, Dahan demands the disciplinary court reject the suspension request to prevent irreversible damage to his freedom to work and presumption of innocence. Should the court consider the suspension, the defense insists the IFA must disclose all investigation materials before any decision. Dahan’s attorney expressed confidence that the court will recognize the IFA’s procedural errors and allow Dahan to continue his football career without interruption.