Maccabi Tel Aviv halted ticket sales for Aston Villa supporters ahead of their Europa League clash in Tel Aviv.
The Israeli club said it would not offer any away‑side seats for the English side, citing safety and logistical concerns at the Municipal Stadium.
The decision follows a recent surge in security checks for teams traveling to Israel. Maccabi’s management explained that the arena’s current capacity and infrastructure cannot comfortably accommodate large groups of foreign fans without additional resources. They worried that a sudden influx of visitors could strain crowd control measures that have already been tight since the 2022 stadium upgrade.
Aston Villa fans, who usually travel in groups of 20 to 30, were upset by the announcement. The club’s fan base is known for their passionate support overseas, and many supporters released statements on social media condemning the no‑ticket policy. Some fans have already made alternative travel arrangements, including group tours and hotels near the venue, hoping to watch the match from the stands.
This isn’t the first time a European club has faced similar hurdles in Israel. Last season, several teams deferred ticket sales due to COVID‑19 restrictions. Maccabi’s latest action is part of a broader effort by Israeli authorities to keep sporting events safe following past incidents where fan crowds caused disturbances.
The Europa League match is scheduled for Tuesday night, 13 June. Maccabi Tel Aviv is planning a ticketing strategy that focuses on home supporters, offering a limited but premium seating plan for local fans. The club’s official website notes that in‑stadium merchandising and dining will remain open to all attendees.
Local experts say the decision could have repercussions for Israeli soccer’s reputation in Europe, but they also point out that attending a match can be a safe, organized experience when plans and protocols are clear. Maccabi’s staff assured visitors that the club would provide transport to and from the arena for any approved fans and would maintain a strict security presence.
What does this mean for Aston Villa supporters? If they want to see the game in person, they will need to keep tabs on ticket moves or join other fan communities. Online ticket vendors are monitoring the situation, and some are offering a waiting list if the club lifts its restrictions.
In short, Maccabi Tel Aviv’s refusal to sell away tickets has sparked debate over safety, fan rights, and how European matches should be managed in a country where security remains decisive. The clubs will keep the public updated as the match day approaches.
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