Adir Portugal, son of Dina and Avraham and brother to Eden, Oz, and Sapir, was born and raised in Mazkeret Batya. From a young age, he stood out as a curious, social, and beloved individual, with a passion for exploring new interests and fields. He was known for his bright smile and unwavering determination, qualities that made him an admired and influential figure among his peers and family.
Adir’s love for sports, particularly football, began early. He played for professional youth teams until the age of 16, earning the nickname “Porto,” which stayed with him throughout his military service. Even after leaving competitive leagues, he continued to play with friends and during his army service. He was a devoted fan of Maccabi Tel Aviv and never missed a match, whether in Israel or abroad.
Known for his strong values of friendship, generosity, and helping others, Adir was a natural leader. He consistently sought ways to support those around him, emotionally and practically.
In November 2018, Adir enlisted in the IDF and was accepted into the Givati Brigade’s elite reconnaissance unit—fulfilling a dream. He excelled as a soldier, later becoming a platoon commander in the “Shaked” Battalion’s support company. His soldiers respected him deeply for his attentiveness, ability to listen, and high standards, all of which were motivated by his desire to train them as best as possible.
Adir’s ambition was evident in all areas of life—from the military to personal endeavors. He maintained a strong connection with his family and was devoted to staying in touch, even during his service.
After completing five years of mandatory and career military service, Adir was discharged in August 2023 and traveled to South America—a long-planned trip. Even while abroad, he stayed in close contact with loved ones and enjoyed exploring new cultures.
On October 7, 2023, while still traveling, Adir learned of Hamas’s surprise attack and the horrors unfolding in Israel. Without hesitation, he cut his trip short, found an evacuation flight from Peru, and returned to Israel.
Upon landing on October 12, he immediately reported for reserve duty with the “Shaked” Battalion, where he had previously served as a commander. Although he wasn’t formally called up, he voluntarily signed for gear and joined the unit, participating in the IDF’s initial ground incursion into Gaza.
Initially assigned as a medevac APC commander, Adir was later appointed the APC commander for the battalion’s deputy commander, a highly challenging and critical combat role. He fought bravely and with composure alongside his comrades, displaying exceptional leadership and unwavering resolve.
On November 19, 2023, during intense fighting in Jabaliya, northern Gaza, Adir and his team encountered a fierce battle. While defending his fellow soldiers and carrying out his mission, Adir was killed along with several others. His bravery and willingness to lead under fire saved the lives of others.
Adir was laid to rest in the military cemetery in Mazkeret Batya. Thousands of residents, family, and friends attended his funeral to pay their final respects. In recognition of his courage and ultimate sacrifice, Adir was posthumously promoted to the rank of Captain.
This project commemorates Adir Portugal z”l through the establishment of an annual football tournament that promotes values of excellence, leadership, and camaraderie. The tournaments will serve not only as a sporting event but also as an educational gathering with workshops focused on leadership, teamwork, and social responsibility.
Additionally, the project includes naming a stadium in Adir’s memory, located in his hometown or the surrounding region. This stadium will become a vibrant hub for youth and community sports and educational activities, fostering values that Adir embodied.
The planned stadium and tournaments will serve as a living tribute to the values Adir upheld—athletic excellence, personal leadership, and community engagement. The facility will be a home for youth teams and fans, carrying Adir’s legacy forward for generations.
Estimated Budget:
₪100,000 for maintaining annual tournaments and naming the stadium in his honor.
On October 7, 2023, while still traveling, Adir learned of Hamas’s surprise attack and the horrors unfolding in Israel. Without hesitation, he cut his trip short, found an evacuation flight from Peru, and returned to Israel.
Upon landing on October 12, he immediately reported for reserve duty with the “Shaked” Battalion, where he had previously served as a commander. Although he wasn’t formally called up, he voluntarily signed for gear and joined the unit, participating in the IDF’s initial ground incursion into Gaza.
Initially assigned as a medevac APC commander, Adir was later appointed the APC commander for the battalion’s deputy commander, a highly challenging and critical combat role. He fought bravely and with composure alongside his comrades, displaying exceptional leadership and unwavering resolve.
On November 19, 2023, during intense fighting in Jabaliya, northern Gaza, Adir and his team encountered a fierce battle. While defending his fellow soldiers and carrying out his mission, Adir was killed along with several others. His bravery and willingness to lead under fire saved the lives of others.
Adir was laid to rest in the military cemetery in Mazkeret Batya. Thousands of residents, family, and friends attended his funeral to pay their final respects. In recognition of his courage and ultimate sacrifice, Adir was posthumously promoted to the rank of Captain.
This project commemorates Adir Portugal z”l through the establishment of an annual football tournament that promotes values of excellence, leadership, and camaraderie. The tournaments will serve not only as a sporting event but also as an educational gathering with workshops focused on leadership, teamwork, and social responsibility.
Additionally, the project includes naming a stadium in Adir’s memory, located in his hometown or the surrounding region. This stadium will become a vibrant hub for youth and community sports and educational activities, fostering values that Adir embodied.
The planned stadium and tournaments will serve as a living tribute to the values Adir upheld—athletic excellence, personal leadership, and community engagement. The facility will be a home for youth teams and fans, carrying Adir’s legacy forward for generations.
Estimated Budget:
₪100,000 for maintaining annual tournaments and naming the stadium in his honor.
