Three Tiberias Players Receive Three-Month Suspensions in Doping Case Ahead of Premier League Opener

On August 19, 2026, Ironi Tiberias received a significant update in the ongoing doping case involving three of its players: Guy Hadida, David Kaltins, and Niv Gottlieb. The players reached a plea agreement with the Anti-Doping Agency, resulting in three-month suspensions from all matches, pending approval by the disciplinary court. The suspensions are retroactive to July 5, allowing the players to return to training on September 13 and to compete from October onward, after the national team break and the sixth league round against Hapoel Be'er Sheva.

The players cooperated fully with the investigation, admitting to the allegations and providing crucial information, which contributed to the reduced penalties. Despite the resolution for the players, Ironi Tiberias faces potential repercussions at the club level. The fact that three players from the same team violated WADA regulations raises concerns about systemic and collective misconduct, which could lead to further sanctions against the club by the Israeli Football Association.

Financially, the players have continued to receive their full salaries throughout the investigation. Prior to the plea deal, the club had proposed placing the players on unpaid leave, contingent on mutual agreement, but this option was dropped following the settlement. The suspended coach, Eliran Hodeda, remains sidelined as well.

Meanwhile, Ironi Tiberias is preparing to host Hapoel Petah Tikva this Saturday in the Israeli Premier League opener. The match will mark the debut of new head coach Alon Ziv, assisted by Moti Krispil. The team will be without the suspended players and injured striker Kais Ganem. Efforts are underway to reintegrate Itamar Shabiro into the lineup, with Samir Farhoud or Mansour Badji as alternatives. Ndjé Bacho is expected to return to the starting eleven, and Daniel Golani may also feature in his comeback game for Tiberias.