Hapoel Be'er Sheva Stranded in Romania Due to Ben Gurion Airport Disruptions

Following their crucial victory over Sabah that advanced them closer to the Champions League group stage, Hapoel Be'er Sheva was scheduled to return to Israel from Romania on Thursday afternoon. However, the team is currently unable to depart due to operational disruptions at Ben Gurion Airport caused by a workers' union directive. Since 14:00, air traffic at the airport has been significantly reduced, culminating in a complete halt of landings.

The players and staff had already boarded their flight in Bucharest but were forced to disembark when it became clear that the airport was not prepared to receive incoming flights. Almog Boker, reporting from Bucharest, stated that the team was removed from the plane just before takeoff, which was initially planned for 13:25. It remains uncertain when the team will be able to fly back to Israel, with expectations that they may have to wait several hours.

Notably, Hapoel Be'er Sheva will not participate in the opening round of the Israeli Premier League this weekend, with their next match scheduled for Tuesday in Azerbaijan. The airport disruptions have thus caused an unexpected delay in the team's travel plans amid their ongoing Champions League campaign.