Overview
- The local Safety Advisory Group instructed Aston Villa to exclude visiting supporters after West Midlands Police warned they could not safely manage potential protests outside Villa Park.
- Aston Villa says the safety of fans and residents is the priority and remains in dialogue with Maccabi Tel Aviv and local authorities, with UEFA notified of the instruction.
- UEFA says security decisions rest with local authorities but urges an agreed plan that would allow supporters to travel and back their team in a safe, welcoming environment.
- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer calls the exclusion the wrong decision and says police must ensure fans can attend without fear, with government officials seeking a resolution.
- Birmingham police classify the tie as high risk based on recent developments and prior incidents involving Maccabi, while Israel’s foreign minister condemns the move and urges a reversal.