Forever Pure

Founded in 1963, Beitar Jerusalem is the most popular and controversial football club in Israel, known for not tolerating Arabs in its team. To the surprise of many, in the midst of the 2012/13 season, the Russian-Israeli oligarch and owner of Beitar, Arcadi Gaydamak, engages two Chechens Muslims – which is perceived as an insult by many fans. “Forever pure” are the words echoing from the spectator stands, demanding the expulsion of the Arabs, with fans refusing to support their team and rather bombarding the two players with degrading abuse. This marks the beginning of an entire team’s humiliating downfall. The story of a turbulent football season, FOREVER PURE deals with identity, racism, peer pressure, and highlights the link between sports and politics.