"West Midlands Police said it had deemed the match to be high risk based on current intelligence and previous incidents, including violence and hate crimes that took place when Maccabi Tel Aviv played Ajax in Amsterdam last season. Fan bans are not unheard of in European football, but they are a rarity and typically based on a history of violence between fans of rival clubs. There is no history of violence between Aston Villa and Maccabi fans."
"Simon Foster, the elected official in Birmingham responsible for overseeing the local police force and holding it to account, also urged an immediate review, while local mayor Richard Parker urged authorities to find a workable solution that may involve the government covering some policing costs. Premier League team Aston Villa said on Thursday that police had informed the club that they have public safety concerns outside the stadium bowl and the ability to deal with any potential protests on the night."
Police in Birmingham barred Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from attending a Europa League match at Aston Villa on November 6, citing public safety concerns and the ability to manage potential protests. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the police recommendation was wrong and that police should ensure all football fans can enjoy matches without fear; his office said he was angered and the government was working urgently to overturn the ban. The decision drew condemnation from politicians, sports organisations and Jewish groups. Local officials urged an immediate review or a solution that could include government-funded policing. West Midlands Police cited intelligence and past incidents involving Maccabi matches.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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