Become a Member
World

Abu Dhabi royal buys 50 percent stake in Israeli football club

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Nahyan said he is “thrilled to be a partner in such a glorious club”

December 8, 2020 15:20
Beitar Jerusalem fans pictured in 2008

ByMathilde Frot

1 min read

A member of Abu Dhabi’s royal family has bought a 50 percent stake in Beitar Jerusalem, the Israeli football team said. 

As part of the deal announced Monday, Emirati royal Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Nahyan pledged to pump NIS 300 million (£69m) into the leading Israeli club.

The announcement comes after the United Arab Emirates agreed to establish diplomatic relations with Israel in a US-brokered deal earlier this year.

Owner Moshe Hogeg, who flew to Abu Dhabi earlier this month to pursue negotiations, said the deal heralded “new days of coexistence, achievements and brotherhood.”

Editor’s picks

01

Premier progress

02

Premier League and almost all of its clubs adopt IHRA

03

Saudi royal attacks Israel