Maccabi Tel Aviv has announced that they will decline any ticket allocation offered for their upcoming Europa League match against Aston Villa at Villa Park on November 6. This decision comes amid ongoing concerns regarding the safety and well-being of their fans.

The initial decision to bar Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from attending the match was made by Birmingham's Safety Advisory Group (SAG), following a risk assessment conducted by West Midlands Police. The assessment cited "current intelligence and previous incidents," including violent clashes and hate crimes that occurred during a 2024 UEFA Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam. In that instance, several Maccabi fans were attacked, with some attackers convicted of antisemitic acts. Maccabi fans were also accused of anti-Arab slogans and tearing down Palestinian flags.

The decision by the SAG to ban Maccabi fans sparked widespread criticism from politicians and the footballing community. Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the decision as "wrong". The UK government explored options to ensure that all fans could attend the match safely. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy stated the government was working with West Midlands Police and Birmingham City Council to consider all available options.

Despite these efforts, Maccabi Tel Aviv has decided to decline the ticket allocation, citing the paramount importance of their fans' safety. In a statement, the club expressed gratitude for the support from the footballing community and the UK government, while also acknowledging the challenges of addressing racism and hooliganism within football, both in Israel and worldwide. Maccabi emphasized their belief that football should unite people and that no one should feel unsafe while supporting their team.

The club also addressed accusations leveled against their fanbase, stating that "various entrenched groups seek to malign the Maccabi Tel Aviv fan base" and exploit isolated incidents for their own social and political ends. They refuted claims that their fans were responsible for the cancellation of a recent Tel Aviv derby match against Hapoel Tel Aviv, which was called off due to violent riots. Nine people were arrested in connection with the riots.

Maccabi Tel Aviv highlighted the diversity within their team and fanbase, noting that their first-team squad includes Muslim, Christian, and Jewish players, and their supporters come from various ethnic and religious backgrounds.

A government spokesperson expressed sadness at Maccabi Tel Aviv's decision but respected the club's right to make it. The spokesperson condemned those who have "weaponized" the game to stoke violence and fear.

The decision by Maccabi Tel Aviv underscores the complex challenges of ensuring fan safety at international football matches, particularly when geopolitical tensions are involved. The club hopes that circumstances will change in the future, allowing them to play in Birmingham in a safe and sporting environment.