Iranian Owner of Polish Club Posts Antisemitic Rant Against Hapoel Tel Aviv Ahead of Match

Alex Haditaghi, the Iranian owner of Polish football club Pogon Szczecin, published a highly inflammatory and antisemitic post on social media ahead of his team's match against Hapoel Tel Aviv. In his post, Haditaghi accused Israel of committing genocide and condemned Zionism, calling the Israeli state illegitimate and criticizing UEFA for allowing Israeli clubs to participate in European competitions. He expressed explicit support for the Iranian regime and urged the Polish club to channel the anger and suffering of Palestinians into their performance on the pitch.

Haditaghi's statements included harsh language against Israel, labeling it a state that "should not have the privilege and legitimacy" to compete in European football due to its policies, which he described as occupation and ethnic cleansing. He also highlighted the political protection Israel receives from powerful Western governments such as the US, Germany, the UK, and France. The post ended with the slogan "Free Palestine" and a salute to Iran.

This incident marks an unprecedented and hateful attack crossing the boundaries of sportsmanship and UEFA regulations, as it combines direct incitement, antisemitism, and political propaganda within a sporting context. Haditaghi has reportedly refused to sell players to Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv in the past. The football disciplinary bodies in Europe are now expected to consider taking action against him for these remarks.

The controversy underscores ongoing tensions involving Israeli sports teams in European competitions and the intersection of politics and sports. It remains to be seen how UEFA and other authorities will respond to this breach of conduct and whether sanctions will be imposed on the club or its owner.