Maccabi Tel Aviv Fans Banned in Birmingham – Jewish Lawyer Calls It Shameful
Former Tottenham solicitor Selwyn Tash criticized Birmingham police for banning Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from attending the Europa League match against Aston Villa. The controversial decision drew significant media attention and public debate across England.
Reaction and Context
The Europa League fixture between Aston Villa and Maccabi Tel Aviv quickly became one of the most discussed matches in England—not because of the game itself, but due to the fan restriction imposed by Birmingham authorities. Tash, a 73-year-old Jewish lawyer who served as Tottenham Hotspur’s legal counsel from 2001 to 2023, expressed deep concern about the implications of such a ban.
“From my perspective, the ban on letting in Maccabi Tel Aviv fans is shameful.”
Tash’s Perspective on Politics and Sports
Tash emphasized that sports and politics should remain separate. He believes the ban reflects a growing attempt in Britain and other countries to isolate Israel and cast it as a social outcast, not only in sports but also in cultural events such as 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.”
Concerns from the Jewish Community
When asked about Jewish community members attending the match, Tash described the growing sense of unease among British Jews. He noted that personal safety has become a greater concern due to rising anti-Israel sentiment and regular pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
“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.”
Author’s Summary
The Birmingham police’s ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans sparked outrage, symbolizing the rising tension between politics and sports and the growing feeling of alienation among British Jews.