Maccabi Tel Aviv Declines Villa Park Ticket Allocation for Match

Maccabi Tel Aviv has announced that it will not accept any ticket allocations for the upcoming Europa League match against Aston Villa at Villa Park on November 6, 2023. This decision follows a recent ruling by the local Safety Advisory Group (SAG) that prohibited visiting fans from attending the match. The group based its decision on a risk assessment conducted by West Midlands Police, which has faced criticism from various political figures, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

The SAG’s decision has prompted a backlash from fans and officials, who have called for a reversal of the ruling. In a statement released by the club on Monday evening, Maccabi emphasized that the safety and wellbeing of its supporters is their top priority. The statement read, “From hard lessons learned, we have taken the decision to decline any allocation offered on behalf of away fans, and our decision should be understood in that context.” The club expressed hope that future circumstances would allow for a more positive sporting environment in Birmingham.

The situation surrounding Maccabi’s decision comes on the heels of recent unrest involving fans. A derby match against fellow Tel Aviv team Hapoel was cancelled on Sunday after violent clashes erupted outside the shared Bloomfield Stadium. The police intervened following the disturbances, leading to the match’s postponement.

Maccabi Tel Aviv’s refusal to accept tickets reflects a cautious approach in light of recent events, prioritizing the safety of their fans amid rising tensions. The club’s management remains hopeful for a resolution that will allow for safe and enjoyable experiences for supporters in future matches.