Ofir Eini, head of the Israel Soccer Association was applying pressure on then Minister of the Economy Aryeh Deri, in September 2015, to authorize soccer matches on Shabbos. R”L, for too many, Shabbos in Israel is synonymous with soccer and despite objections from the frum lawmakers, it appears Shabbos games will be authorized.

The committee established by Minister of Sports & Culture Miri Regev examined the matter and the committee believes it has developed a legal work-around to permit Shabbos games. The new arrangement promises to also accommodate religious players who have signaled they will not play on Shabbos.

The committee reveals that games must take place on Shabbos R”L for this results in a major component of the league’s funding, received via broadcasting and other means. However, the committee states some existing venues must be upgraded and new ones built and this will result in fewer games played in youth leagues on Shabbos. The committee views this as maintaining the status quo since soccer on Shabbos has been an ongoing reality for years.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)