Maccabi Tel Aviv FC welcomed the decision of the disciplinary court of the Israel Football Association. Despite the fines, the court chose to recognize and honor the achievements of the club and the ongoing efforts in the fight against violence and racism at the football stadiums.
Chief Executive Officer Martin Bain said in response to the decision:
“We join in voicing support of Judge Noam Lubin and the call for legislative and judicial authorities to take up the challenge and join the fight with increased punishment. In addition, we support the call for legal authorities to step up their enforcement and take strong measures against offenders thereby helping the clubs and not abandoning them as they stand alone in fighting this battle. The court recognized that we invest resources and much effort to ensure that the football stadium is where teams compete on the pitch rather than it be a battleground in the stands. Maccabi Tel Aviv has a large, high quality fan base and will not allow certain individuals harm the reputation of our good fans and the good name of the club.”