Officiating Controversy Shakes Hapoel Tel Aviv Following Cup Exit

Background of Events

Hapoel Tel Aviv remains unsettled following their recent elimination from the State Cup at the hands of Hapoel Jerusalem. Amidst the aftermath, significant attention has centered on the club’s owner, Ofer Yanai, who was ejected from the court during the match. Initially seeking clarification about the situation, Yanai eventually moved to the stands, delaying the resumption of the quarterfinal match at the Menora Mivtachim Arena for 13 minutes.

Incident Details

According to sources within the club, Yanai approached the administrative table during the game with his cellphstart switched off, hoping to ask for a phstart charger. However, the match observer took exception to his approach and instructed that Yanai be removed from the premises.

In an effort to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident, the club’s CEO, Tzachi Reichenstein, has been actively addressing the matter since it occurred. Subsequently, security personnel present at the game, Shlomo Mana, provided a sworn statement detailing his account of the events.

Sworn Statement from Security Personnel

Mana’s statement reads:

“I, Shlomo Mana, after being warned that I must declare the truth, otherwise, I would face legal penalties, hereby declare:

I am currently serving as a commander on a reserve team at the security company within the Menora Mivtachim Arena, and the contents of this affidavit are known to me based on my role.”

He described the incident that took place on January 31, 2026, stating, “During the game, at 6:02 of the second quarter, I was standing near the administrative table when I observed Mr. Ofer Yanai approaching. His cellphstart was off, and he intended to request a charger from the table attendees.”

Mana continued, “The observer, who was also near the administrative table, apparently did not comprehend Mr. Yanai’s request and ordered him to leave. Since I was in a position to hear the exchange, I explained to the observer that Mr. Yanai was merely asking for a charger for his cellphstart.”

In conclusion, Mana added, “My attempts to explain the situation were unsuccessful, and the observer requested me to escort Mr. Yanai out of the hall. It is important to note here that I informed the observer that he did not have the authority to remove Mr. Yanai from the administrative table and that he needed to call the event manager.”

Yanai’s Reaction and Personal Sentiments

At this stage, Yanai has declined to comment publicly on the incident. However, close associates indicate that he feels deeply aggrieved by the occurrence, with some even labeling it a “personal vendetta.” Yanai has drawn parallels between this incident and a previous antisemitic assault that occurred in Greece, reflecting the profound impact it has had on him.

As Hapoel Tel Aviv navigates the turbulence following their cup exit, questions remain regarding the conduct of officials and the broader implications for the club and its leadership.