Polish football club owner declines ‘Israeli’ transfer offer on ethical grounds

The owner of Polish Ekstraklasa football club Pogon Szczecin declined transfer negotiations with ‘Israel’s’ Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Alex Haditaghi, the Iranian-Canadian businessman who acquired Pogon Szczecin in 2025 and prevented its financial collapse, cited profound moral objections linked to the ongoing assault on Gaza.

He emphasized that football should embody hope, respect, unity, and humanity, transcending political divisions, yet argued that current circumstances made business dealings inappropriate.

The approach from Maccabi Tel Aviv concerned two defenders under contract with Pogon: Dimitris Keramitsis and Leo Borges.

Despite their long-term agreements—extending to 2029 and 2027 respectively—Haditaghi formally notified the ‘Israeli’ club’s president of his refusal to engage in discussions.

In a detailed letter published on social media platform X, Haditaghi drew a historical parallel to underscore his position.

He stated that, had he lived during the era of Nazi Germany, he would not have conducted business with any sports club representing that regime due to its crimes against humanity.

Haditaghi said that “ethics must be stronger than profit and money” He affirmed his responsibility not only to safeguard the club’s financial interests but also to uphold its values and principles of humanity.

“There are moments in history when silence becomes complicity, and when money, business, and opportunity must come second to conscience,” Haditaghi continued.

“Considering the ongoing suffering of innocent civilians in Gaza, Lebanon, Iran, and across the region, and considering the violent, genocidal and inhuman actions of the Israeli state, I do not believe it would be morally right for our club to proceed with any business transaction with a club representing Israel at this time,” he added.