Maccabi Tel Aviv fans banned in Birmingham

The Europa League match between Aston Villa and Maccabi Tel Aviv became one of the most discussed football fixtures in England recently—not for the game itself, but due to a controversial ban.

Police Decision Sparks Outcry

Birmingham police prohibited Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from entering England's second-largest city for the match, prompting widespread criticism from media and local football fans alike.

Perspective of Former Tottenham Lawyer Selwyn Tash

Selwyn Tash, a 73-year-old Jewish lawyer who served as legal counsel for Tottenham Hotspur for 22 years (2001–2023), shared his views in an exclusive interview with Israel Hayom ahead of the game.

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

Tash emphasized the importance of separating politics from sports and highlighted a growing trend in Britain and beyond aimed at isolating Israel socially and in sporting events.

"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 About Safety Among the Jewish Community

When asked if he knew any Jewish fans planning to attend, Tash noted growing safety concerns:

"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 in Birmingham reflects broader social tensions and raises critical questions about separating politics from sporting events.

www.israelhayom.com — 2025-11-06