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Fact check: Will the Maccabi Games be canceled?

Checked on June 15, 2025

1. Summary of the results

Based on the available analyses, the Maccabi Games are not currently planned to be canceled. There are actually two separate Maccabi events being discussed:

  • The Maccabi Games in Israel (July 2-22, 2025) are proceeding with specific dates for Junior and Open delegations, including planned opening and closing ceremonies [1]
  • The European Maccabi Youth Games at the University of Hertfordshire in the UK (July 30-August 6) are also moving forward, expecting over 800 athletes from 14 countries [2]

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Several important contextual elements need to be considered:

  • Security Concerns: Following the October 7th attacks, there are ongoing security discussions, though organizers express confidence in their Israeli partners [3]
  • Legal Framework: Attempts to cancel the UK games faced legal challenges, as cancellation would likely violate the Equality Act 2010 by discriminating against participants based on ethnicity and religion [4]
  • Organizational Preparation: Detailed logistical planning is already in place, including:
  • Comprehensive refund policies [5]
  • Specific participation requirements and payment schedules [1]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The simple question about cancellation overlooks several crucial aspects:

  • Active Opposition: There is an ongoing boycott campaign by pro-Palestine campaigners seeking to stop the games [2]
  • Institutional Support: Despite controversies, major institutions are backing the events:
  • The University of Hertfordshire UCU has withdrawn opposition after legal consultation [4]
  • Israeli organizers remain committed to hosting their portion of the games [3]
  • Financial Considerations: The existence of detailed refund policies and payment schedules [5] [1] suggests organizers are proceeding with confidence while maintaining contingency plans
Want to dive deeper?
What are the Maccabi Games and when do they typically occur?
Have the Maccabi Games ever been canceled or postponed in history?
What factors could lead to the cancellation of international sporting events like the Maccabi Games?
How do geopolitical tensions affect international Jewish sporting competitions?
What is the current status of the 2025 Maccabi Games schedule and venues?