Aston Villa vs. Maccabi tel Aviv Fixture Deemed High Risk, Away Fan Attendance Restricted
The upcoming Europa League match between Aston Villa and Maccabi Tel Aviv on November 10th has been classified as “high risk” by West Midlands Police (WMP), leading to a decision to restrict attendance by maccabi Tel Aviv supporters. The decision stems from concerns over public safety, informed by previous incidents of violence and hate crimes.
The concerns are rooted in events surrounding Maccabi Tel Aviv’s Europa League game against Ajax in Amsterdam last November. Dutch police reported “outbursts of violence” following the match, resulting in 62 arrests and five hospitalizations.Prior to the game, Maccabi Tel Aviv fans were involved in an attack on a taxi and the burning of a Palestinian flag. City officials had already increased police presence to 800 officers due to pre-existing safety concerns.
UEFA regulations require home teams to allocate at least five percent of stadium capacity to away supporters.However, UEFA stated it “encourages both teams and the competent authorities to agree on the implementation of appropriate measures necessary to allow this to happen,” while emphasizing that “the competent local authorities remain responsible for decisions related to the safety and security of matches.”
WMP’s assessment cited both “current intelligence and previous incidents” as justification for the restriction. Birmingham City Council confirmed a “collective decision” was made to limit away fan attendance following a multi-agency safety review, prompted by police concerns.
The decision has drawn criticism from Labor leader Keir Starmer, who stated on social media, “This is the wrong decision. We will not tolerate antisemitism on our streets. The role of the police is to ensure all football fans can enjoy the game, without fear of violence or intimidation.”
The context for these concerns includes the important Muslim population in Birmingham – approximately 30% according to a 2021 census - and the frequent pro-Palestinian demonstrations held in the city sence the start of the ongoing conflict. similar heightened security measures were in place for Israel’s recent World Cup qualifiers against Norway and Italy.
A petition calling for the game’s cancellation, relocation, or playing behind closed doors has been signed by Ayoub Khan, the independent member of parliament for Perry Barr.The petition urges UEFA,the UK Culture Minister,and Aston Villa to take action to ensure public safety and community harmony. However, with the match only 20 days away, logistical challenges make cancellation or relocation unlikely.
Aston Villa has begun their Europa League campaign with wins against Bologna and Feyenoord, and will play Go Ahead Eagles away on October 23rd before hosting Maccabi Tel aviv.Maccabi Tel Aviv has not yet responded to requests for comment.
