The club said in a statement: “We appreciate the efforts of the British government and police to ensure that both fans can safely attend the match, and we appreciate the messages of support from across the football community and society.”
“As a club, we believe that football should bring people together, not separate them. No one should feel at risk just because they want to come to support their team, and no one should feel hesitant about bringing family and friends with them. We have a strong track record of bringing people together.”
“We have contributed to attracting footballing talent from all over the world, regardless of race or creed. Our first-team players are made up of Muslim, Christian and Jewish players, and our fan base also transcends ethnic and religious boundaries.
“We have also worked tirelessly to root out racism among the more extreme elements of our fan base. Unfortunately, these issues are not unique to Israeli football, but are issues that the sport grapples with around the world, including in the UK.”
“It is clear that various well-established groups are trying to denigrate the Maccabi Tel Aviv fan base, most of which have no track record of racism or hooliganism of any kind, and are exploiting isolated incidents for their own social and political purposes. The latest example comes from those who rushed to blame the fans for the Tel Aviv police’s decision to cancel yesterday’s derby match, which was not the case.
“It’s easier to believe than to ask, especially when it aligns with an agenda. Our fans regularly travel across Europe without incident, but to suggest that the reason our fans are not allowed to travel is because of their actions is an attempt to distort reality and excuse the real underlying reasons for the decision to ban them.”
“Our fans and the Jewish community are well aware of this tactic and the consequences it can have. We are also concerned about the interference of divisive figures who do not represent our club’s values. We condemn all abhorrent views that have no place in football.
“The result of these hateful falsehoods is a toxic atmosphere that places the safety of fans who wish to attend in great doubt. Incendiary rhetoric and the peddling of half-truths is never healthy, but the statements made in this case are of the most worrying kind.
“Perhaps the agenda contained here should be considered more closely, not for Maccabi Tel Aviv or for football, but for society and its underlying values. The well-being and safety of our fans is of paramount importance and, from the hard lessons learned, we have taken the decision to reject the allocation offered on behalf of our away fans, and our decision should be understood in that context.”
“I am hopeful that the situation will change and I am looking forward to playing in a sporting environment in Birmingham in the near future.”
