"There’s Nothing Else Like the Maccabiah in the Jewish World"

How do you view the partnership between KKL-JNF and the Maccabiah?

“Maccabi World Union has always been an important part of the Zionist movement. For us, it’s a unique organization – from the Maccabiah Games, to the global Maccabi youth movement, to international competitions around the world, and even Kfar Maccabiah, which serves as a heritage site and home to the Jewish Sports Museum.

This isn’t the first time KKL-JNF has supported the Maccabiah. When the topic came up, I told my colleagues that the Maccabiah is not just another sporting competition - it’s a major Zionist, national, and cultural event. There’s really nothing else like it in the Jewish world. That’s why it’s only natural for us to support it strategically every few years".

KKL-JNF supported the 2025 Maccabiah, which was postponed. What changed this year?

"This year, the situation was different. The 2025 Maccabiah had to be postponed due to the war with Iran, which created real challenges for the organizers – complex logistics and unexpected costs. In response, we decided to double our support, from 4 million to 8 million shekels. That’s something we usually reserve for the most significant Zionist initiatives.”

Tell us more about KKL-JNF’s special activities during the upcoming Maccabiah.

“For me, that’s not the main point. I don’t think KKL-JNF should support the Maccabiah by pushing its own agenda. We support it because of what it represents. The Maccabiah itself - its essence - is a powerful Zionist act that must come to life in Israel every few years, and that’s what really matters.

Our partnership with the Maccabi movement will only grow stronger. We’ll continue exploring new ways to support this incredible organization and deepen the connection between us in the years ahead.”

What message would you like to share with the athletes arriving in Israel for the Games from around the world?

“Just as KKL-JNF is building the land of Israel, our Jewish athletes are building something just as important – our spirit and identity. The people of Israel are waiting for you, proud of you, and cheering you on. Step onto the field with pride, draw strength from this land, and continue to strive, grow, and reach ever higher".