Maccabiah Games postponed until 2026 due to Israel-Iran war

Just three weeks before it was due to take place, the Maccabiah Games have been postponed until July 2026 because of the Israel-Iran conflict.

The Maccabiah Games, sometimes referred to as the “Jewish Olympics”, is an international multi-sports event held every four years in Israel that brings together thousands of diaspora Jewish athletes with Israeli sportsmen and women.

Believed to be the second largest athletics event in the world, this year’s competition was due to feature 45 different sports.

Based on ongoing security assessments and advice, Maccabi World Union, the organisers of the games, concluded on Monday that it was “neither possible nor appropriate” to continue with preparations for the games at this time.

In an email sent out to supporters, Maccabi GB, the British affiliate of the global Maccabi movement, said it understood “how disappointing” this news would be for everyone involved but that it was hopeful British athletes would be able to participate next year instead.

“We know how much hard work, energy and excitement has gone into reaching this point,” Jonathan Prevezer, chairman of Maccabi GB, said. “The safety and security of all athletes, delegations, and supporters remains the top priority for everyone involved.”

Maccabi GB said it was “fully committed” to its athletes and promised “transparency” as it continues to communicate with the games’ organisers “to understand what this postponement means” and how the games might unfold next year.

Maccabi GB also acknowledged financial challenges for participants or supporters of the games, noting that “a significant portion of costs have already been committed to our trusted providers in Israel, reflecting the advanced stage of planning.

“However, we are actively exploring all available options to minimise any financial impact and recover as much as possible.”

The 2025 Maccabiah Games were set to run next month in Israel between July 8 and July 22, this year featuring the theme of “More Than Ever”, meant to emphasise unity and connection with the State of Israel.

About 10,000 competing athletes and possible future Olympians from more than 80 countries ordinarily attend the games, often using the opportunity of being in Israel for cultural exchanges and to go on tours of the country.

The last cycle of the Games, in 2021, also had to be delayed for 12 months due to the Covid-19 pandemic.