Ahead of Aston Villa’s home game against Maccabi Tel Aviv at Villa Park, hundreds of officers from “at least 10 different forces” have been drafted in to ensure safety, as planned protests are set to surround the stadium. The policing effort comes after Maccabi Tel Aviv decided to forgo a ticket allocation following a ban on their fans attending the match.
What Happened
A large-scale police operation is underway as Aston Villa prepares to face Maccabi Tel Aviv on November 6, 2025. Following the decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from attending the game, protests both in favor of and against the ban are expected to take place outside Villa Park. To maintain order, officers from at least 10 different police forces across the UK have been mobilized, including personnel from as far afield as Devon and Dorset, as well as support from The Metropolitan Police.
Birmingham Police commander, Ch Supt Tom Joyce, spoke to ITV News Central, explaining the extensive nature of the operation. “We’ve got at least 10 forces on mutual aid,” Joyce said, adding that officers have come from locations as far as Dorset and Devon. “It’s a proper team effort,” he continued. “All the officers have been given the clear briefing that the goal tonight is to maintain good community relations, to facilitate lawful protests, and, above all, to be a friendly, reassuring, and calming presence.”
Planned Protests and Public Safety
The decision by Maccabi Tel Aviv to not pursue a ticket allocation, following the fan ban, has resulted in protests planned for the vicinity of Villa Park. Protesters, some waving flags, have gathered outside the stadium to express their political views regarding the match against the Israeli side. In preparation for potential unrest, the police have also set up barriers and police vans outside Villa Park.
The police operation has been designed with the intention of facilitating peaceful demonstrations while ensuring safety. However, Ch Supt Joyce emphasized that any groups or individuals attempting to break the law would be dealt with directly. “Clearly if there are individuals or groups that have a different motive and want to cause trouble and break the law they will be dealt with with a direct response,” he said.
Drone Restrictions in Place
As part of the safety measures, a temporary drone exclusion zone will be enforced around Villa Park on the day of the match. Between 4pm and 11.59pm, drones will be prohibited from flying within a one nautical mile radius of the stadium. Violating the restriction will be considered a criminal offense. The authorities hope that those wishing to express their political rights will do so in a lawful manner.
Official Statements and Ongoing Efforts
Ch Supt Joyce reiterated the primary goal of the police operation: to allow everyone to enjoy the match and ensure that everyone goes home safely. While acknowledging that the police do not have the authority to call off the game, Joyce stated that the operation was designed to prevent any disruption that could result in such a recommendation. “We are setting up the policing operation so that isn’t the outcome,” he added.
The extensive police presence is part of an ongoing effort to maintain public order and ensure that any demonstrations remain peaceful. While tensions may run high due to the political nature of the protests, the authorities are determined to create an environment where safety and public order are prioritized.
Closing line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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