UEFA has imposed significant disciplinary measures on Israeli football club Maccabi Tel Aviv following incidents of discriminatory behaviour by its supporters during a European match.
Details of the UEFA Sanction
The UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) issued a €20,000 (approximately £17,550) fine against the club. This penalty relates directly to what UEFA termed "racist and/or discriminatory" conduct by Maccabi fans during an away fixture in the Europa League.
The match in question took place on 11 December against German side VfB Stuttgart. It is understood the specific infringement involved anti-Arab chanting from sections of the travelling supporters.
Suspended Ban and Previous Controversy
In addition to the financial penalty, UEFA handed down a suspended one-match away fan ban. This prohibits Maccabi from selling tickets to their supporters for their next UEFA competition away match, but the ban is suspended for a probationary period of two years.
This sanction follows a separate, highly controversial decision last month that prevented Maccabi fans from attending their Europa League match against Aston Villa on 6 November. That ban was enacted by the local Safety Advisory Group (SAG) on police advice, citing safety concerns.
Political Fallout and Wider Context
The earlier fan exclusion at Villa Park prompted significant political criticism. Prime Minister Keir Starmer labelled the decision as "wrong", while Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy urged police to review their stance.
Subsequently, police chiefs were called to give evidence before the Home Affairs Committee of MPs on 1 December regarding the matter. Committee chair Karen Bradley has requested further information from multiple authorities involved.
Maccabi Tel Aviv was not the only club sanctioned in this latest round of UEFA decisions. Bayern Munich received a €116,000 fine for offences including the blocking of passageways and the lighting of fireworks. There has been no immediate public comment from Maccabi Tel Aviv regarding their fine and suspended ban.
