Overview
- Birmingham’s Safety Advisory Group has kept advice to bar visiting supporters after West Midlands Police classified the 6 November tie as high risk.
- West Midlands Police defended the evaluation as intelligence-led after reports that their assessment flagged possible disorder originating with Maccabi supporters, a characterization PA said police did not dispute.
- Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called the restriction the wrong decision as ministers offered to fund extra policing, and Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy pointed to specific risks facing Israeli and Jewish fans.
- Rival demonstrations are expected at Villa Park, including a pro‑Jewish solidarity rally, a potential turnout promoted by activist Tommy Robinson, and a mobilization linked to cleric Asrar Rashid’s “show no mercy” message.
- Aston Villa moved to limit risk by restricting home ticket sales to supporters with a purchase history predating the 2025/26 season.