Coach and Five Players Suspended Over Doping Allegations at Ironi Tiberias Football Club

The National Anti-Doping Agency announced on Sunday the temporary suspension of Ironi Tiberias football coach Eliran Hodeda and five players amid doping allegations. The suspensions follow an investigation into the suspected administration of illegal infusions to players, conducted jointly by the Israel Football Association and the Anti-Doping Agency. The suspended players are David Kaltins, Guy Hadida, Niv Gottlieb, Sambinia, and Yonatan Teper. Alongside Hodeda, technical manager Chen Sol and fitness coach Shlomi Vedardo were also suspended. The athletes and staff have the right to a hearing and may pursue plea deals or trials under WADA regulations. The suspended players have engaged lawyer Ephraim Barak, who maintains their innocence and is negotiating with the agency for a plea agreement.

The probe began after a formal complaint from M.S. Ashdod regarding suspected illegal infusions given near a relegation playoff match. Investigations revealed that some players received supplements containing banned substances, followed by large infusions intended to mask these substances in potential doping tests. About two weeks ago, club owner Aryeh Kalmanzon publicly supported the players, urging them to stay united and confident, assuring that the club will defend them and maintain its place in the Premier League. Kalmanzon emphasized the club's strength and determination to overcome the scandal.

This case remains under active investigation, with further hearings and possible legal proceedings expected as the agency continues to enforce anti-doping rules in Israeli football.