Maccabi Haifa Denies Contact Allegations and Calls on Beitar Jerusalem to Apologize

Maccabi Haifa responded to Beitar Jerusalem's criticism following Beitar's receipt of the President's Award for Sports on August 17, 2026. Haifa congratulated Beitar Jerusalem on winning the award and praised the community contributions of all Israeli football clubs, emphasizing that community work transcends rivalries and club colors.

Addressing the controversy, Maccabi Haifa firmly denied claims that its CEO, Itzik Ovadia, contacted any committee members regarding the award, stating that such allegations are false and misrepresent reality. The club expressed disappointment with Beitar Jerusalem's reaction, describing it as lacking the dignity expected in relation to this prestigious award and suggested that Beitar should apologize for their statements.

Maccabi Haifa also reaffirmed respect for the committee's decision and their fellow club Beitar Jerusalem, committing to continue their community and social efforts as they have for decades. In a statement to Sport Channel, Haifa acknowledged Beitar Jerusalem's recent progress and elevated status as a club but criticized their response as unnecessarily inflammatory and disrespectful, urging a more respectful discourse from a major club.