UK Bans Israeli Club Fans at Villa Match
West Midlands Police have banned supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv from travelling to Aston Villa’s stadium in Birmingham for their upcoming Europa League match. The match is classified as “high risk,” and officials say the decision is necessary to ensure public safety.
Reason cited
Police and local authorities pointed to past incidents, including violence and hate crimes during Maccabi Tel Aviv’s 2024 match in Amsterdam, as justification for the ban. A multi-agency safety advisory group backed the decision after assessing security threats.
Backlash and support
UK opposition leader Keir Starmer condemned the ban as wrong and pledged to defend the rights of Jewish fans. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called it a “national disgrace.” Jewish groups described the move as alarming, arguing that spectators shouldn’t be barred for their identity.
Official stance
Aston Villa said the ban followed law enforcement guidance and was intended to protect fans and residents. Authorities emphasized their zero-tolerance approach to hate crime and the priority of stadium safety.
