Barrister Ayoub Khan, MP for Birmingham Perry Barr, has welcomed the decision by the Safety Advisory Group (SAG) to advise that Maccabi Tel Aviv fans should not attend the Europa League match against Aston Villa on 6 November.
In a statement, Mr Khan said it was clear from the start that there were “latent safety risks” surrounding the fixture that even experienced police and security teams would struggle to manage. He described the decision as the “right and responsible” step amid ongoing tension and uncertainty.
“Sports entertainment events should be enjoyed by all, regardless of race, ethnicity, and background,” he said. “But there are rare instances where the political dynamics surrounding such spectacles cannot be ignored, and where drastic action must be taken to ensure the safety of fans, players, staff, and local residents.”
Mr Khan expressed gratitude to Aston Villa FC, Maccabi Tel Aviv FC, West Midlands Police, and the Safety Advisory Group for listening to the community’s concerns. He urged people to “ease tensions, set aside political differences, and focus on the football once more.”
Alongside his written statement, the Birmingham MP released a short video message on social media highlighting his campaign for public safety and community cohesion ahead of the high-risk fixture.