Aston Villa has announced that Israeli fans will be barred from attending an upcoming Europa League match against Maccabi Tel Aviv in Birmingham due to significant security concerns and potential for public demonstrations linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The decision, confirmed on Thursday by the English Premier League club, follows strong advice from local safety and police authorities. The club’s Safety Advisory Group (SAG) at Villa Park recommended the ban. They cited “various physical and security factors” as the basis for their counsel.
West Midlands Police have classified the November 6 match as “potentially dangerous.” Police officials are preparing for the possibility of pro-Palestinian demonstrations around the stadium before and after the game.
Aston Villa stated in a communiqué that its primary concern is the “safety of fans and residents.”
The club also confirmed it is in ongoing discussions with Maccabi Tel Aviv and local authorities regarding the unprecedented measures for the European competition fixture.