New Hapoel Tel Aviv Basketball Chairman Aims to Heal Community Divisions and Restore Trust

Hapoel Tel Aviv basketball club is undergoing significant leadership changes following the appointment of Satu Shacham as the new chairman. Announced on August 25, 2026, just a day after his appointment, the club also announced the departure of CEO Tzahi Reichenstein, who served the club for two years, and the appointment of Oren Hasson as his replacement. Shacham emphasized his primary goal is to mend divisions within the Hapoel community and restore trust among fans and stakeholders.

Shacham, who received his mandate from club owners including Ofer Yanai, Gili Reanen, Miki Malka, and Leonard, outlined plans to rebuild the club’s unity and increase season ticket sales gradually by regaining community confidence. He expressed gratitude to Reichenstein for his dedicated service and described the transition as a new beginning for the club.

Regarding the new CEO, Shacham praised Hasson’s deep connection to the club and his extensive experience, including previous roles in football management. He expressed confidence that together with the owners and management team, they would lead Hapoel Tel Aviv to new successes.

On the sporting front, Shacham highlighted the quality of the current team and coaching staff, expressing optimism about winning the Israeli league championship and possibly the State Cup, achievements the club has not secured in years. He also mentioned efforts to bring the EuroLeague games back to Israel, emphasizing the club’s home is in the country.

Shacham described the club’s organizational structure as professional and businesslike, with Hasson managing daily operations and George Chinas overseeing the team’s sporting activities. He also noted that Reichenstein will remain involved in an advisory capacity to support the transition. Overall, Shacham’s vision centers on healing internal rifts, professionalizing management, and achieving sporting success to reengage the fan base.