The Israeli Premier League derby between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tel Aviv was cancelled before kick-off on Sunday, following what police described as “public disorder and violent riots.”
Authorities reported that “dozens of smoke grenades and pyrotechnic devices were thrown,” with police X account stating, “this is not a football game, this is disorder and serious violence.”
The unrest resulted in injuries to twelve civilians and three police officers, with nine individuals arrested and an additional sixteen detained for questioning.
This incident follows closely on the heels of the UK’s decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from attending their Europa League match against Aston Villa next month, citing safety concerns. The UK government is reportedly working to overturn this ban.
Hapoel Tel Aviv has criticized the cancellation, suggesting that the Israeli police were overly prepared for conflict rather than a sporting event. The club stated on X, “The shocking events outside the stadium and following the reckless and scandalous decision not to hold the match only demonstrate that the Israel Police has taken control of the sport.”
Maccabi Tel Aviv has confirmed the cancellation but has not yet issued a further comment.
The ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans for the Aston Villa match has drawn criticism, with the UK government looking into ways to ensure the fixture proceeds safely. West Midlands Police had previously supported the ban, classifying the game as “high risk” due to intelligence concerning violent clashes at previous matches, including those involving Ajax and Maccabi Tel-Aviv in Amsterdam, which led to over 60 arrests.
The match cancellations and protests underscore the broader impact of geopolitical tensions on sporting events, with protests having occurred at various international football matches involving Israel.