Bodo/Glimt make huge donation to Red Cross in Gaza amid Israel-Hamas war after Europa League clash with Maccabi Tel Aviv

The Norwegian outfit are proud of their commitment to “providing tangible support during a time of global crisis”. With that in mind, they have pledged NOK 735,000 (€63,000/£52,000) to humanitarian aid efforts in the Gaza Strip.

Amid heightened geographical tension in the Israel-Hamas region, Bodo/Glimt faced considerable challenges when it came to fulfilling a continental fixture against Maccabi Tel Aviv at Aspmyra Stadium. The contest was, however, viewed as “a symbol of unity, peace, and resilience”.

Frode Thomassen, CEO of Bodo/Glimt, has said of efforts to bring communities together and address issues that extend far beyond the boundaries of a football pitch: “We at FK Bodo/Glimt cannot, and will not, be unaffected by the suffering and violations of international law that are taking place in other parts of the world.

“While we are a football club, not a political actor, we recognize the responsibility we have to contribute to positive change. That is why we have chosen to donate the ticket revenues from this match to the Red Cross, earmarking the funds for aid in the Gaza Strip.”

Inge Henning Andersen, chairman of the board of Bodo/Glimt, added: “This donation is more than just financial support; it is a message of compassion and solidarity. Through this action, we aim to show that our club stands with those in need, and that sport can serve as a platform for positive impact, far beyond the football field.”

Bodo/Glimt have launched their own ‘Action Now’ project, with supporters buying into that programme as they staged peaceful demonstrations – including a powerful TIFO display in the stands – during a European encounter with opponents from Israel’s Mediterranean coastline.