Supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv will be barred from attending their upcoming Europa League match at Aston Villa’s home ground due to security concerns.
Local law enforcement in the West Midlands expressed doubts over its capacity to manage possible demonstrations during the game at Villa Park on Thursday, 6 November.
The Safety Advisory Group, which oversees stadium safety certification, informed the English club that visiting spectators would not be granted entry for the encounter in Birmingham.
Aston Villa stated that it remains in close contact with the Israeli team and regional officials as discussions continue. The club emphasized that safeguarding those attending, as well as people living nearby, remains a key priority in any decision taken.
Political leaders condemn the move
The restriction has triggered criticism from political figures, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who labelled the move “the wrong decision.”
Police have categorized the upcoming contest as “high risk” after evaluating recent intelligence and reviewing past disturbances. Their statement referred to violent scenes and hate crimes linked to last year’s Europa League tie in Amsterdam between Ajax and the Israeli club.
Officials argue that prohibiting travelling fans is a precaution intended to reduce the likelihood of unrest.
Conservative MP Nigel Huddleston objected to the measure, asking Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy to examine the situation. He said on social media that sport has the ability to bring communities together and warned that the ban “gives in to the forces of hatred and division.” He questioned whether Britain is truly unable to keep Jewish supporters safe at sporting venues.
Sir Keir stressed online that policing should allow all supporters to enjoy football without threats. Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch also described the decision as a “national disgrace.”
History of disturbances around Villa fixtures
Past incidents have heightened concerns. In 2023, authorities arrested 39 individuals during trouble ahead of Villa’s match against Legia Warsaw.
Demonstrations connected to the conflict in Gaza have taken place at various sporting events, including international fixtures involving Israel against Norway and Italy during recent World Cup qualifiers.
UEFA position and previous violent episodes
European football’s governing body stated that it aims to ensure travelling fans can attend matches in a safe and welcoming atmosphere. However, it also highlighted that responsibility for match security ultimately lies with host authorities.
Violence before Ajax’s home meeting with Maccabi Tel Aviv last November resulted in arrests. Officials in Amsterdam described those events as a volatile mix of antisemitism, football disorder, and anger surrounding developments in Gaza and other parts of the Middle East.
