UK PM: Wrong decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from Villa Park

The ban was imposed after the West Midlands Safety Advisory Group classified the 6 November fixture at Villa Park as "high risk". West Midlands Police supported the move, citing recent violence and hate crime linked to Maccabi Tel Aviv's European fixtures, including incidents during their match against Ajax in Amsterdam earlier this year.

The UK government are in opposition to the decision, with PM Starmer leading the criticism. "This is the wrong decision. The role of the police is to ensure all football fans can enjoy the game, without fear of violence or intimidation," said Starmer.

The ban was imposed after the West Midlands Safety Advisory Group classified the 6 November fixture at Villa Park as "high risk". West Midlands Police supported the move, citing recent violence and hate crime linked to Maccabi Tel Aviv's European fixtures, including incidents during their match against Ajax in Amsterdam earlier this year.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy is set to meet with the Home Office and other stakeholders to discuss the situation, amid mounting political pressure to reverse the decision. Minister Ian Murray said the government was doing "everything possible" to resolve the issue, despite it being an operational policing matter.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch described the move as a "national disgrace", while other MPs warned it sets a troubling precedent.

Aston Villa said it remains in "continuous dialogue" with Maccabi Tel Aviv and authorities, adding that the safety of fans and local residents remains the priority.

In a statement, West Midlands Police defended the ban: "This decision is based on current intelligence and previous incidents, including violent clashes and hate crime offences. We believe this measure will help mitigate risks to public safety."

UEFA expressed its desire for away fans to be able to travel safely but emphasised that final decisions rest with local authorities. The Jewish Leadership Council called the ban "perverse", while local MP Ayoub Khan supported it, citing ongoing tensions and potential unrest.

The match is scheduled for Thursday, 6 November at Villa Park.