Maccabiah 2026 launched in Tel Aviv under theme 'More Than Ever'

The road to the Maccabiah 2026 Games officially began this week. Organizers launched the event with a festive ceremony atop Tel Aviv City Hall, unveiling the theme "More Than Ever." Paralympic taekwondo champion Asaf Yasur and Olympic judo silver medalist Inbar Lanir were announced as the torch lighters for the opening ceremony in Jerusalem.

The Maccabiah, previously postponed due to Operation Rising Lion, is scheduled for July 1-14, 2026. It is expected to draw thousands of athletes, families, and visitors from Jewish communities globally to Israel. The launch event gathered Maccabiah officials, government representatives, municipal leaders, and prominent Israeli Olympic and Paralympic athletes, including Artem Dolgopyat and Moran Samuel.

Maccabiah chairman Assaf Goren emphasized the Games' added significance following recent challenges faced by Israel. "Nowadays, the Maccabiah is a symbol of hope, recovery, and our determination as a people following the most difficult times that our generation has endured," Goren stated. He expressed pride in overcoming challenges and anticipation for welcoming international guests to compete, deepen connections, and strengthen Israel.

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Nowadays, the Maccabiah is a symbol of hope, recovery, and our determination as a people following the most difficult times that our generation has endured. I am proud that we have overcome the challenges, and we look forward to welcoming thousands of guests from around the world who will come to compete, deepen connections, and strengthen Israel – this time, more than ever.

A highlight of the evening was the debut of a new version of the official Maccabiah anthem, a contemporary arrangement of Naomi Shemer's 1981 song, performed by Nunu and Jimbo J. Minister of Culture and Sport Miki Zohar underscored the Maccabiah's role in connecting Israel with global Jewish communities. "The Maccabiah is a bridge between Israel and Jewish communities around the world, and in these times, amid all the challenges we face, that connection is more important than ever," Zohar said.

Organizers also revealed participants for the torch ceremony, including Eviatar Zeitouni, a disabled IDF veteran wounded on October 7. His inclusion is intended to symbolize recovery and courage. The Games aim to foster a sense of unity and resilience.

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The Maccabiah is a bridge between Israel and Jewish communities around the world, and in these times, amid all the challenges we face, that connection is more important than ever. The State of Israel is strong, sport leads and inspires us all, and the people of Israel live on and thrive.