Belgian Mayor Refuses to Host Israeli Soccer Team
The mayor of Leuven, Belgium, Mohamed Ridouani, has announced that the city will not host the upcoming Europa League match between Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise and Israel's Hapoel Be'er Sheva. The match is scheduled for October 22nd as part of the tournament's league stage.
Ridouani stated that the decision was based on public security concerns and that the game would not be permitted in Leuven, even if played without spectators. "Union is welcome here, but when it comes to an Israeli team, then no. I am consistent on this matter," the mayor declared.
The Belgian club was already planning to play its European home games in Leuven because its usual stadium in Brussels does not meet UEFA standards. This refusal means Union Saint-Gilloise must now find an alternative venue that complies with UEFA regulations within the next two months.
Reports indicate Ridouani holds strong anti-Israel sentiments, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. In April 2025, the Leuven city council called for a ceasefire in Gaza and raised the Palestinian flag at city hall, while also pledging emergency aid to the territory.
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