Gaza Herald _A report issued by the Palestinian Football Association has revealed the scale of damage and losses suffered by the sports sector in the southern governorates (Gaza Strip) from October 7, 2023, through February 12, 2026. The losses include both human casualties and the destruction of sports infrastructure and facilities as a result of the genocidal war launched by the Israeli occupation.
Martyrs
The report stated that the total number of martyrs among members of sports federations, clubs, youth institutions, and scouting organizations reached 1,007 (962 males and 45 females). The victims included players, coaches, administrators, referees, presidents, and board members, as well as staff working within federations and sports institutions.
According to the report, the Palestinian Football Association recorded the highest number of casualties, with 565 martyrs. Various Olympic federations with 317 martyrs followed this, and then the Palestinian Scout and Girl Guides Association, which recorded 125 martyrs.
Damage
The total number of damaged sports facilities, including stadiums, halls, and administrative headquarters, reached 265 facilities. Of these, 184 were completely destroyed, while 81 sustained partial damage.
The destruction affected main stadiums, indoor sports halls, club headquarters, accredited football fields, basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts, swimming pools, fitness centers, and the only athletics track in the Gaza Strip.
Several major stadiums, including Yarmouk Stadium, Palestine Stadium, and Al-Durra Stadium, were converted into shelters for displaced civilians.
Missing Persons
The report also documented five missing members of the sports community, including players, coaches, and administrators from various clubs.
The Palestinian Football Association stated that these figures reflect the enormous losses endured by the sports sector in the southern governorates and the profound impact on the Palestinian sports movement, both in terms of human resources and infrastructure.
