Sofia Sena, a Brazilian footballer for Ramat HaSharon, is set to be deported from Israel after being detained for overstaying her tourist visa.
Despite starting in 16 league matches this season, the club claimed she was not part of the team when questioned by immigration authorities.
Sena and her teammate Renata Santana were arrested last Thursday after it was discovered they lacked valid work permits. Sena had approached the Interior Ministry to request residency as the partner of an Israeli citizen, which led to the revelation of her expired visa. Although she played just a week prior, Ramat HaSharon distanced itself from her.
Santana, who shared an apartment with Sena, was also detained. The Population Authority confirmed within hours that Santana could be released on a 30,000-shekel bail, citing a clerical error in her visa cancellation. However, due to delays by the club in hiring legal counsel and posting bail, she spent over two days in detention.
The club reportedly informed the players’ families that legal support was being arranged, but only hired a lawyer hours later. The Immigration Authority also rejected the club’s claim that the release process was delayed due to unstaffed airport offices, noting that bail could be paid online.
The Football Players’ Association and the Israel Football Association both refrained from direct involvement, stating the responsibility for visa arrangements lies with the clubs. IFA chairman Shino Zuaretz has since proposed requiring clubs to prove visa compliance before registering foreign players.
The full story was first published in Haaretz.
Brazilian footballer Sofia Sena detained in Israel over visa issues; faces deportation after Ramat HaSharon denies club affiliation.