A member of Abu Dhabi's ruling family has bought a roughly 50% stake of Israeli Premier League soccer club Beitar Jerusalem, the club announced on Monday.
The Jerusalem side, which has gained notoriety for never having fielded an Arab player, said that Sheik Hamad bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, has pledged to invest 300 million shekels, or about $90 million, into the club over the next decade.
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Beitar Jerusalem F.C. owners Moshe Hogeg and Sheik Hamad bin Khalifa Al Nahyan
(Photo: Courtesy of Beitar Jerusalem F.C.)
"The money coming into the club's coffers will be used primarily for investment in infrastructure, the youth academy and signing of players with high potential," the club said in a statement. "The club will establish a new board of directors which will also include the sheik's son, Muhammad bin Hamed bin Khalifa, who will be his representative on all issues pertaining to the club."
Beitar owner Moshe Hogeg said in a statement that the deal represented "new days of coexistence, achievements and fraternity" and added that he will remain the main figure in the club.
Hogeg also reiterated his commitment to fighting racism among the extreme elements of the club's fanbase.
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Beitar Jerusalem F.C. owners Moshe Hogeg and Sheik Hamad bin Khalifa Al Nahyan sign purchase agreement papers
(Photo: Courtesy of Beitar Jerusalem F.C.)
"I fought [racism] since my first day [at the club] and until the last," Hogeg said. "It does not deter us, and our potential partner is aware of this threat and it is part of the reason we must act to show that Muslims and Jews can do very beautiful things together without fear."
Al Nahyan said he was thrilled to be part of a "glorious club." He also referred to Jerusalem as "the capital of Israel," despite Palestinian claims to the eastern part of the city.
"I have heard a lot about the change taking place in the club and the way things are going, and I am happy to take part in that," he said.
Beitar said in September it was negotiating a possible investment by a group in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a statement that followed the announcement that Israel and the UAE had agreed to normalize ties.