Controversial soccer team Beitar wins anti-racism award

An Israeli football team known for its anti-Arabic chants and far-right fan base is awarded an anti-racism prize by the president after improving its behavior.

Beitar Jerusalem, known for its often violent ultra-nationalist Jewish fans, was awarded the “ground-breaking achievement” at the Shield of Honor awards by President Reuven Rivlin in Jerusalem.

The club, which finished third in the Israeli Premier League last year, was recognized for its youth work and the establishment of a forum to deal with incitement and racism.

“I hope that Beitar will continue on the right and proper way, and your success will have a positive impact across the public,” Rivlin, a long-time fan and former manager of the club, said.

Beitar Jerusalem fans during the UEFA Europa League match with R. Charleroi SC at the Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem, July 23, 2015. (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)
Beitar Jerusalem fans during the UEFA Europa League match with R. Charleroi SC at the Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem, July 23, 2015. (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)

The club has a controversial history in Israel. Its fans often sing anti-Palestinian chants at matches, including “Death to Arabs.” They have also chanted support for Yigal Amir, a far-right Jewish nationalist who assassinated Israeli prime minister Yitzhak Rabin in 1995. Beitar is also the only club in the Israeli league that has never had an Arab Muslim player.

Last year, 19 members of Beitar’s ultra-nationalist La Familia fan group were charged with attempted murder, including of rival supporters.

— AFP

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