Maccabi Tel Aviv fans have been banned from attending the Europa League game against Aston Villa at Villa Park, following the recommendations of the Safety Advisory Group (SAG). Following instructions from both SAG and UEFA, the club has announced that traveling supporters will not be allowed into the stadium for the November 6th match.
This decision was taken due to security outside the stadium and the ability to manage any protests that might occur that night. The Israeli team’s visit to the UK has been overshadowed by protests and threats of unrest. At a recent match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Greece’s PAOK, around 120 supporters were under close police protection due to a pro-Palestinian demonstration outside the stadium.
Aston Villa said in an official statement: “Following instructions from the Safety Advisory Group, Aston Villa can confirm that the club has been informed that away fans will not be allowed to attend the UEFA Europa League match against Maccabi Tel Aviv on Thursday 6 November.”
“The Safety Advisory Group (SAG) is responsible for issuing safety certificates for all matches at Villa Park, based on a number of physical and safety factors.”
“Following a meeting this afternoon, SAG has formally written to the club and UEFA informing them that away fans will not be allowed into Villa Park for this match.
“West Midlands Police have advised SAG that there are public safety concerns outside Stadium Bowl and that they have the capacity to deal with potential protests on the night.
“The club is in continuous dialogue with Maccabi Tel Aviv and local authorities throughout this ongoing process, and is keeping the safety of supporters attending matches and the safety of local residents at the forefront of all decisions.”
Last year, Maccabi Tel Aviv fans were targeted by anti-Semitic attacks while watching a match against Ajax, and dozens were arrested.
The Jewish Leadership Council criticized the decision to prevent Israel fans from traveling to Birmingham.
“It is evil to ban away fans from a football match because West Midlands Police cannot guarantee their safety,” wrote X.
The council added: “Aston Villa should face the consequences of this decision and the match should be played behind closed doors.”
