Villa Informs Stewards of Potential Absence from Maccabi Tel Aviv Match
Aston Villa has notified their stewards about the possibility of missing fans from Maccabi Tel Aviv during an upcoming match. This decision comes after West Midlands Police deemed the fixture as “high risk” due to prior incidents.
Background on the Match Ban
On Thursday, West Midlands Police identified safety concerns stemming from previous clashes and hate crimes involving Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax fans. Notably, in November 2024, violent confrontations in Amsterdam led to over 60 arrests.
Following the police’s warning, Aston Villa received an instruction from the Safety Advisory Group (SAG), which oversees public safety at events. The club emphasized that safety protocols are their top priority.
Official Reactions
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer criticized the fan ban, labeling it “wrong.” He affirmed a commitment to combat antisemitism, condemning any related violence. This sentiment was echoed by leaders from various political parties who raised concerns regarding community safety.
Ongoing Discussions
Aston Villa stated they are maintaining open channels of communication with Maccabi Tel Aviv and local authorities to prioritize safety. They aim to ensure a secure environment for fans and local residents during the match.
Future Considerations
The SAG is set to reassess the decision if West Midlands Police provides a revised risk evaluation. Aston Villa’s inclusion in the SAG includes collaboration with local authorities, police, and emergency services to enhance event safety.
The Home Office was informed of potential restrictions on visiting fans last week. However, final confirmation regarding the ban came only on Thursday, aligning with police assessments.
