With freed hostages: Maccabi Congress opens with emotional ceremony ahead of the Maccabiah"

The 22nd Maccabiah, often dubbed the "Jewish Olympics," is poised to be the most significant iteration yet of Israel’s largest sporting event. Scheduled for July 8-22, 2025, this quadrennial gathering will bring together over 10,000 athletes from 80 countries under the resonant slogan "More Than Ever." The theme reflects a renewed emphasis on unity and strengthening ties between Jewish communities worldwide and Israel, especially in the wake of recent challenges.

On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, the World Maccabi Congress kicked off at Kfar Maccabiah in the presence of Israel’s Minister of Culture and Sports, Miki Zohar, and over 200 representatives from the global Maccabi movement. Held annually, this year’s congress was dedicated to preparations for the upcoming Maccabiah. Delegates from approximately 40 countries attended, and the event also honored survivors of captivity and bereaved families, acknowledging the ongoing war’s toll.

A Star-Studded Ambassador Team

For the first time, the Maccabiah will feature an ambassador team composed of Olympic and Paralympic champions. This elite group includes judokas Peter Paltchik and Raz Hershko, Olympic gymnastics gold medalist Artem Dolgopyat, and Paralympic stars Asaf Yasur and Moran Samuel. Joining them is American singer and social media influencer Montana Tucker, who has emerged as a prominent advocate against antisemitism and in support of Israel since October 7.

New and Returning Sports

The Maccabiah continues to evolve, introducing new competitions while reviving fan favorites. Pickleball, one of the world’s fastest-growing sports, will debut with singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events. Handball returns after missing the previous games, featuring both men’s and women’s tournaments. Padel, which debuted last time, will now include a Masters category alongside its regular competitions.

Opening Ceremony and Key Events

The opening ceremony will take place on July 10 at Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem, with the closing event set for July 21 in Tel Aviv. Surfing competitions will be held at Herzliya’s beaches and the new wave pool at Begin Park in Tel Aviv—a Maccabiah first. Other cities will host major events: Hadera will welcome football, judo, karate, and a road cycling time trial, while Ra’anana will host baseball, squash, and table tennis.

Beyond the arenas, the Maccabiah will embrace Israel’s landscapes and heritage. A 100-kilometer road cycling race on July 18 in the western Negev will pass through resilient Gaza border communities like Re’im Park and the Sderot police station, symbolizing renewal. Sprint triathlon and open-water swimming events will take place in the Emek HaMaayanot Regional Council, including Gan HaShlosha (Sakhne) and the Asi River.

Maccabi Run: Scenic Races Across Israel

The Maccabi Run series will offer participants unique courses blending sport and scenery. A coastal sunset race in Herzliya, a nighttime half-marathon in Jerusalem passing historic sites like the Knesset and Rose Garden, and a race in Hadera’s Eco Park are among the highlights. A trail run in Daliyat al-Karmel along the "Sons’ Trail"—a memorial path for fallen Druze IDF soldiers—will conclude with a festive event featuring traditional Druze hospitality, capping off the Maccabiah’s race week.

A Celebration of Resilience and Unity

With its expanded roster of sports, high-profile ambassadors, and a focus on resilience, the 22nd Maccabiah promises to be a powerful celebration of Jewish identity and athletic excellence. From Jerusalem’s stadiums to the Negev’s open roads, this summer’s games will showcase not only competition but also the enduring spirit of a global community coming together "more than ever."