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4h ago

Aston Villa Told to Bar Maccabi Tel Aviv Fans After Police Declare Match High Risk

A high‑risk police assessment tied to prior violence prompted the local safety authority to instruct Villa to bar visiting supporters.

Starmer Says ‘Wrong Decision’ to Ban Maccabi Tel Aviv Fans From Game at Aston Villa
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Overview

  • Aston Villa said Birmingham’s Safety Advisory Group has instructed that no Maccabi Tel Aviv away fans may attend the Europa League game at Villa Park on 6 November.
  • West Midlands Police classified the fixture as high risk, citing current intelligence, the risk of protests outside the stadium, and violent clashes and hate crime offences linked to Ajax–Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam in 2024.
  • The club said it remains in ongoing dialogue with Maccabi Tel Aviv and local authorities, stressing that the safety of supporters and nearby residents is the priority.
  • UEFA stated it wants fans to travel and support teams safely but affirmed that match safety decisions rest with the competent local authorities.
  • The decision drew strong reactions, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer calling it the wrong decision, the Jewish Leadership Council arguing for a behind‑closed‑doors game instead, and local MP Ayoub Khan welcoming the ban.