Davis Cup Tie to be Played Without Fans Amidst Security Concerns in Halifax
HALIFAX – This weekendS Davis Cup World Group I tie between Canada and Israel will proceed in Halifax, but without spectators, Tennis Canada announced Tuesday. Teh decision follows escalating safety concerns raised by local authorities and national security agencies, leading to a closed-door event at the Scotiabank Center.
The move comes as Tennis Canada faces pressure from over 400 Canadian athletes and academics, including Olympic runner Moh Ahmed, who have called for the cancellation of the tie in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the West Bank.
Gavin Ziv, CEO of Tennis Canada, expressed disappointment but emphasized the paramount importance of safety. ”Our primary obligation is to protect the well-being of athletes, fans, and staff while ensuring the davis Cup tie can still be played,” Ziv stated. “We persistent that holding the event behind closed doors was the only viable path to achieve both goals.”
Ticket holders will recieve full refunds within 30 days. While Halifax Regional Police confirmed a visible presence will be maintained around the venue to support public safety, they declined to provide specific details regarding potential threats or their operational plan.
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) voiced its dismay at the decision to exclude fans. “The ability to cheer for Team Canada is a essential part of the Canadian experience,” a CIJA statement read. “It’s deeply troubling that a small group of extremists have effectively hijacked this event, silencing thousands of fans who simply wished to demonstrate national pride. Tennis Canada acted to protect Canadians from serious threats, and it’s unacceptable that intimidation and harassment have created an unsafe environment for supporting our athletes.”
Despite the lack of a live audience, the tie will be broadcast nationally on TVA Sports and CBC’s streaming services.The winning team will qualify for the 2026 Davis Cup Qualifiers.
This announcement follows a similar request made a day earlier by the Montreal-based human rights group Palestinian and Jewish Unity, urging Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante to prevent the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team from participating in Sunday’s Grand prix Cycliste de Montréal.
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