UK government weighs reversal of travel ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans
Senior government officials are exploring a reversal of the West Midlands police decision to ban away supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv from the European tie against Aston Villa next month. The issue has become a political flashpoint, with leaders from across the political spectrum condemning the ban and calling for a balanced approach to public safety and inclusion at major public events.
Ian Murray, a minister in the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, described the ban as “completely and utterly unacceptable.” He indicated that the culture secretary, Lisa Nandy, would meet with the Home Office and other stakeholders to discuss potential options and a path forward. Murray emphasized that, while policing decisions are operational, the government must ensure public events are not restricted by race, religion, or background.
Political fallout and statements from leaders
The move has sparked a wider political debate. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch have both criticized the ban, underscoring concerns about discrimination and the importance of facilitating safe public gatherings. Starmer called the decision “the wrong decision,” while Badenoch labeled it a “national disgrace.”
Speaking on BBC Breakfast, Murray reiterated the government’s stance: public events should not be excluded on the basis of identity, and police must consider ways to enable attendance without compromising safety. He also noted that the government would not become involved in operational policing decisions, but would seek a workable solution through consultations with the Home Office and other authorities.
Police rationale and international context
West Midlands police classified the fixture as high-risk, citing intelligence and past incidents, including violence linked to a 2024 Ajax vs. Maccabi game in Amsterdam. Dutch authorities reported clashes, with Maccabi fans accused of tearing down a Palestinian flag and chanting provocative slogans, leading to injuries and arrests. Such incidents have prompted several European authorities to impose away-fan restrictions in specific matches.
UEFA has urged authorities to ensure safe, secure, and welcoming environments for away fans, encouraging collaboration to implement necessary measures that would permit attendance while maintaining public order. The governing body’s stance is to support fans’ rights to travel for football while prioritizing safety and security.
What happens next
With the government planning talks among key agencies, a resolution could hinge on clear conditions for travel and stadium safety, as well as robust policing plans. If an agreement is reached, it may involve specific security measures, designated sections for away fans, or other mitigations designed to minimize risk without denying access based on national or religious identity.
The clubs involved have not publicly confirmed a formal ban status beyond the police’s statements. Maccabi Tel Aviv’s chief executive, Jack Angelides, indicated the club had not been formally notified of a ban and suggested that away fans could be accommodated, noting similar precedents where large groups have traveled to international venues under controlled conditions.
Outlook
As Friday discussions loom, the focus remains on balancing safety with inclusive attendance. The outcome could set a precedent for how European fixtures are managed in the UK, particularly when international rivalries and sensitive geopolitical contexts intersect with sport. Fans, clubs, and governments alike will be watching closely as officials seek a way to reconcile security concerns with the fundamental right to attend public events.
