Jacob Shachar purchased Maccabi Haifa in 1992, and a new era had begun in the history of the club and of the Israeli football. As an innovator in his field Shachar was the first businessman in Israel ever to buy a football club and run it in a completely professional manner. Shachar brought to Maccabi Haifa the same standard of excellence that propelled his vehicle importing company, "Mayer's", to national leadership.
Shachar's move to buy and run Maccabi Haifa successfully was the cornerstone for an era, which led the elite of businessmen to purchase football clubs. Under Shachar's leadership, Maccabi Haifa has become the most professional football club in Israel and was a pioneer in the country for achievements at the European scene.
Born in 1941, Shachar has been involved in sports for more than 50 years. From his days as an enthusiastic young football player in Ness Tziona, his hometown, Shachar has always been a huge fan of the game. He was the sponsor of Maccabi Haifa before purchasing the club and had a big part in the organization's growth already then.
Since he purchased the club, Maccabi Haifa has won 5 championships, 3 national cups, 2 Toto cups and was the first Israeli team ever to participate at the UEFA Champions League. There is no doubt that Shachar's innovative attitude made him, and Maccabi Haifa, a role model in Israel regarding running a professional sports organization.
