Maccabi Haifa Acquired in Major Deal: New Owner and Coach Return
Revolution on the Carmel: the Maccabi Haifa senior team moves to the private ownership of businessman Shay Yochai Klausner. Coach Benny Katz returns to the sidelines with the clear goal of stabilizing the club and securing a quick return to the Super League.
The Maccabi Haifa senior basketball team is embarking on an independent path and moving to private ownership. Haifa businessman Shay Yochai Klausner has completed the acquisition of management rights and full control of the club from the "Maccabi Haifa Carmel" association. The main goal of this move is to establish a stable economic model, inject significant capital, and implement a multi-year strategic plan to return the "Greens" to the Super League stage.
While the youth department will remain under the parent association (with full professional synchronization with the senior team), the club is already beginning practical preparations for the 2026/27 season. The first sign of professional change under the new ownership is the return of Benny Katz to the position of head coach, who will lead the team in its new format.
Klausner, who has followed the team closely over the years, shared his vision after the signing:
"Maccabi Haifa is much more than a basketball club. It is part of the sporting identity of the city of Haifa and a source of pride for thousands of fans. The decision to take on ownership stems from the understanding that to return Maccabi Haifa to its rightful place, full professional and financial commitment is required in the long term."
The new owner added:
"We are embarking on a new path with a clear vision — to build a stable, professional, and ambitious club. I invite the team's fans and the business community in the city to join us. Together we will be able to return Maccabi Haifa to its rightful place in Israeli basketball."
