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Maccabi Tel-Aviv Withdraws Away Support for Aston Villa Over Safety Concerns

The move follows a derby in Tel Aviv halted by pyrotechnics, with clashes prompting a full-stadium evacuation.

Overview

  • Maccabi Tel-Aviv said it will not distribute tickets for the Nov. 6 Europa League match at Aston Villa, citing supporter safety.
  • Police canceled Sunday’s Hapoel–Maccabi derby at Bloomfield Stadium, evacuating roughly 30,000 people after pre-match unrest that left officers injured and the pitch scarred by burn marks.
  • Israeli police described dangerous pyrotechnics and projectiles from ultras that led to clashes, while Hapoel accused officers of excessive force and alleged trampling by police horses, claims contested by authorities.
  • Opposition leader Yair Lapid faulted National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir for the failure to secure the event as political criticism mounted after the cancellation.
  • British police had recommended barring Maccabi away fans at Villa Park, the UK government said it would try to allow attendance, Aston Villa warned against political displays under UEFA rules, and Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy noted police will have the final say.