Maccabiah Daily Recap for July 13, 2026

Live Look From Israel
Maccabiah Daily Update: July 13, 2026

After two incredible weeks of competition, connection, and unforgettable memories, the 2026 Maccabiah officially came to an end with a meaningful Closing Ceremony celebrating the athletes, volunteers, and supporters who made these Games so special. While there was no competition on the schedule, the day was filled with moments of reflection, celebration, and appreciation for a journey that brought together the global Jewish community.

On Monday, our Junior athletes had the opportunity to explore the Old City of Jerusalem, walking through one of the world's most historic and meaningful places before beginning the next chapter of their Maccabiah experience. Today our Junior and Open athletes begin the Israel Connect program, where they'll continue building friendships and deepening their connection to Israel through immersive educational and cultural experiences.

Be sure to continue following along with all the content from Israel Connect by following Maccabi USA on social media and our website here.

Maccabiah Closing Ceremony

The 2026 Maccabiah came to a memorable close as athletes from around the world gathered one final time to celebrate the friendships, sportsmanship, and unforgettable moments that defined the Games. The evening featured incredible musical performances, emotional farewells, and the beloved tradition of athletes trading team apparel, a colorful display of the connections built across delegations over the past two weeks.

The celebration also included a special honor for Maccabi USA Open Swimmer Isla George, who was named the 2026 Maccabiah Female MVP, recognizing her outstanding performances throughout the Games! See her list of accomplishments from the Maccabiah below:

1500m Free: Gold Medal
800m Free: Gold Medal
400m Free Relay: Silver Medal
400m Mixed Free Relay: Silver Medal
400 Medley Relay: Silver Medal
400 Mixed Medley Relay: Silver Medal
400m Free: Bronze Medal
200 Mixed Medley Relay: Bronze Medal

While the Closing Ceremony marked the official conclusion of competition, it also signaled the start of a new chapter as our Junior and Open athletes begin the Israel Connect program, continuing their journey with meaningful educational and cultural experiences across Israel.

Click here to see all of our photos from the Maccabiah.

M25 Photos

M25 Scores

Junior Athletes Visit the Old City of Jerusalem

Before beginning Israel Connect, our Junior athletes spent the day exploring the Old City of Jerusalem, walking through one of the world's most historic and meaningful places. From the ancient stone streets to the Western Wall and the city's iconic landmarks, the experience offered a powerful opportunity to connect with thousands of years of Jewish history. It was a memorable day of reflection, discovery, and shared experiences before the next chapter of their journey across Israel begins.

Follow Maccabiah Coverage with Maccabi Media

and Jewish Broadcasting Service

Thank you all for keeping up with everything from the Maccabiah as covered by our Maccabi Media Team. We are excited to continue producing content throughout the Israel Connect Program with video features, articles, and recaps. Check out the Maccabi Media page on our website to catch all of the coverage from Israel!

We encourage you to watch the previously livestreamed games by our Maccabi Media students on our YouTube channel or on Jewish Broadcasting Service. Check out the great JBS Maccabiah promo video here!

Be sure to check out our new feature stories produced by our Maccabi Media Team on our YouTube channel and follow along with all of our content on social media!

Highlights: Open Men's Soccer Gold Medal

Bronze, Silver, and Gold for USA Boys' Basketball

USA Soccer Picks Up Three Bronze Medals

Medal Day at Volleyball

U17 Tennis Medals on Final Day of Competition

2026 Medalists for Juniors Track and Field

Maccabi Athlete Hank Baronowski Wrestles for a Cause

Thank you for tuning in and cheering on the USA delegation from afar!

Maccabi Media M25 Coverage

Watch Maccabiah on JBS