Norwegian footballer Ole Saeter, who is eligible to represent Pakistan through his maternal ancestry, has turned down a lucrative offer from Israeli football club Maccabi Haifa, citing moral objections.
Reports indicate that Saeter was offered $910,000 (approximately PKR 264.3 million) to join the club. However, he declined the offer, expressing that he cannot play for a country he holds responsible for violence against children and the elderly.
In an interview with a Norwegian newspaper, Saeter stated, “Even if I were offered $500 million, I would not join an Israeli club.” He emphasized that his values outweigh financial gain, refusing to accept money from a nation he believes is involved in human rights violations.
Saeter has previously showcased his connection to Pakistan by sharing images of himself in the Pakistan football team jersey on social media.
In related news, FIFA recently postponed its decision on a Palestinian bid to suspend Israel from international soccer amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Palestine Football Association (PFA) submitted a proposal to suspend Israel in May, which FIFA is expected to discuss in October.
The PFA’s proposal accuses the Israel Football Association (IFA) of complicity in violations of international law and discrimination against Arab players, asserting that at least 92 Palestinian players have died due to the conflict. The PFA is calling for “appropriate sanctions” against Israeli teams, including both the national team and clubs.
The IFA has denied these allegations, while FIFA has not provided additional details regarding the legal assessment related to the Palestinian proposal.
