Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy is convening a meeting with Home Office officials and other stakeholders on October 17, 2025, to address the controversial ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans attending the Europa League match against Aston Villa. The decision, deemed “unacceptable” by government ministers, was made by Birmingham’s Safety Advisory Group citing public safety risks from previous violent clashes.
The ban was imposed after West Midlands Police advised that the fixture is high-risk based on current intelligence and incidents such as the violent clashes during the 2024 match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam. In that event, over 60 people were arrested, and it was described as involving antisemitism and hooliganism linked to the war in Gaza. The police emphasized concerns about potential hate crimes and violence if away fans attend, referencing the “toxic combination” of factors that led to arrests and prison sentences.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer strongly condemned the decision, stating it is the “wrong decision” and that antisemitism will not be tolerated on British streets. Other political figures, including Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, labeled it a “national disgrace,” highlighting fears that it signals Jews cannot go to certain parts of Britain. The government has committed to resolving the issue while respecting police operational independence, with broad cross-party criticism echoing concerns about discrimination.
Culture Secretary Nandy’s meeting aims to find a pathway to reverse the ban or implement measures to ensure safety. Ian Murray, the minister for culture and science, echoed the prime minister’s stance, calling the ban “completely and utterly unacceptable” and stressing the need to send the right message about inclusion and non-discrimination in public events. He noted that the government is intervening to see if there is a way through the operational decision.
The decision has sparked broader debates about antisemitism, security, and the impact of geopolitical tensions on sports. Andrew Fox, honorary president of Aston Villa’s Jewish supporters’ club, argued that the ban is more political than safety-based, noting Maccabi fans’ lack of a violent track record in other European games. He expressed concerns about societal divisions and the message it sends about British society’s ability to handle debates without violence, pointing to the wider context of the Gaza war.
UEFA, European football’s governing body, has urged local authorities to allow fan attendance in a safe and welcoming environment, though it acknowledges that safety decisions rest with local officials. Aston Villa confirmed ongoing dialogue with Maccabi Tel Aviv and authorities, prioritizing supporter and resident safety while navigating the complex dynamics. The club emphasized that safety is paramount, but the decision has drawn scrutiny from various quarters.
Looking ahead, the meeting’s outcome may lead to a review of the decision or the establishment of enhanced security protocols. Simon Foster, West Midlands’ Police and Crime Commissioner, has requested an immediate review to ensure the ban is justified and proportionate. This event underscores the challenges of managing sports events amid heightened tensions and the importance of balancing safety with principles of fairness and inclusion, with potential implications for future similar fixtures.