Antisemitism Charge as Maccabi Tel Aviv Fans Barred from UK Match
The UEFA Europa League match on November 6 between Aston Villa and Israel’s Maccabi Tel Aviv will take place in Birmingham without Maccabi's fans attending. This decision has sparked controversy, with many accusing Birmingham officials of antisemitism.
Official Reasons for the Ban
Birmingham police stated that ticket sales to Israeli fans were blocked due to security concerns. The city’s Safety Advisory Group, collaborating with local police, advised Aston Villa against allowing Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters into Villa Park. West Midlands Police classified the game as “high risk,” citing “current intelligence and previous incidents.”
Background of Incidents
One significant incident referenced was a violent riot after a friendly match in Amsterdam last November, where local gangs attacked Maccabi supporters. In addition, police mentioned a rise in racist incidents at soccer games both in Israel and Europe as factors for this precaution.
Reactions and Accusations
Many in Israel view the ticket ban as an attempt to isolate Israel amid increasing anti-Jewish sentiment across Britain. Critics argue that soccer ticket sales were misused as a political tool rather than a genuine security measure.
Many in Israel have accused officials in Birmingham of blatant antisemitism, weaponizing soccer ticket sales to isolate Israel at a time of growing anti-Jewish sentiment in Britain.
Ticket Allocation in European Soccer
In European football, a visiting team usually receives a separate block of tickets to sell to its fans, unlike major American sports where away fans can buy tickets throughout the stadium.
West Midlands Police classified the match as “high risk,” citing “current intelligence and previous incidents,” including a violent riot after a friendly match in Amsterdam last November.
Summary: The ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans attending the Aston Villa match has stirred accusations of antisemitism amid official security concerns over increased racist incidents in soccer.
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