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West Midlands Police Chief Apologizes for Maccabi Fans Ban

1/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford apologized to MPs for providing incorrect evidence about the ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans.
The apology follows scrutiny over excluding Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from a Europa League match against Aston Villa on November 6.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is expected to address Parliament after receiving a report from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.

History

Historical Context

The exclusion of Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from a 2023 Europa League match against Aston Villa reflects ongoing tensions rooted in past incidents, such as the 1985 Heysel Stadium disaster. West Midlands Police justified the ban due to concerns over hooliganism, echoing historical calls for accountability in policing and fan safety, which remain critical in shaping future event management policies.

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Story summary

West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford apologized to MPs for providing incorrect evidence about the ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans.
The apology follows scrutiny over excluding Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from a Europa League match against Aston Villa on November 6.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is expected to address Parliament after receiving a report from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.

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