Maccabi Tel Aviv Fans Attack Rivals After Match, League Chairman Demands Police Action

Violent incidents occurred outside the stadium in Rehovot following Maccabi Tel Aviv's 5-2 victory over Hapoel Jerusalem on August 23. Videos circulated online showed a small group of Maccabi Tel Aviv fans assaulting rival supporters with batons as they left the game. Erez Kalfon, chairman of the Israeli Football Leagues Administration, condemned the attacks and stated he immediately contacted the police demanding they apprehend the offenders. With the suspects now in custody, Kalfon expressed hope that the prosecution would file serious charges leading to harsh penalties. He also wished a speedy recovery to the injured fans hospitalized.

The Israeli Football Fans Association responded to the events by emphasizing that such violence is unacceptable and warned that without fundamental changes, similar incidents will recur. They called on all responsible authorities to fully assume their duty to maintain public order and safety, learn from the incident, and improve enforcement. The association pledged ongoing efforts to ensure football matches remain safe environments.

The league administration and fan groups alike are pushing for stronger legal and security measures following this outbreak of violence, signaling increased scrutiny on fan behavior and law enforcement at football events in Israel.