Maccabi Tel Aviv fans banned in Birmingham

The Europa League match between Aston Villa and Maccabi Tel Aviv became widely discussed in England, not for football reasons but due to Birmingham police's decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from attending in the city.

Legal Expert Criticizes the Ban

Selwyn Tash, a 73-year-old Jewish lawyer and former solicitor for Tottenham Hotspur for 22 years (2001–2023), condemned the ban as “shameful.” He is well acquainted with English football and its evolving social landscape.

"From my perspective, the ban on letting in Maccabi Tel Aviv fans is shameful."

Tash emphasized that politics should not interfere with sports, noting a troubling trend aimed at isolating Israel socially and in sports, extending even to entertainment events like Eurovision.

"You mustn't mix politics and sports. This is part of a trend expanding in Britain and elsewhere, aimed at isolating Israel and turning it into a social pariah, generally, and in sports specifically. Also in entertainment events like Eurovision."

Concerns for Jewish Community Members

Regarding attendance, Tash shared his personal concerns as a lifelong London resident, highlighting the increasing need for caution amid social tensions.

"As a Jew born in London and living here my entire life, I need to take special precautions. This is the first time I feel this way. For example, there are pro-Palestinian marches in central London almost every Saturday, an area we must stay away from."

Summary

The ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans reflects growing political tensions affecting sports and public safety concerns within the Jewish community in the UK.

Would you prefer a more formal or conversational tone in the HTML text?

www.israelhayom.com — 2025-11-06