Dutch Authorities Bar Hapoel Be'er Sheva Fans From Alkmaar Match

Dutch authorities, including police, the municipality, and the public prosecutor's office, have decided to prohibit fans of Israeli football club Hapoel Be'er Sheva from attending their upcoming Europa League away match against AZ Alkmaar. The decision, announced by Alkmaar on Wednesday, is attributed to "security considerations." Alkmaar stated that their priority is to organize a safe and responsible match, maintaining close contact with relevant authorities. The club acknowledged that the game evokes diverse public reactions and respects differing viewpoints, emphasizing their responsibility to ensure safety for all involved.

This marks the first time an Israeli team will play in the Netherlands since a violent incident in November 2024, when Maccabi Tel Aviv fans were attacked by pro-Palestinian individuals after a match against Ajax in Amsterdam. Many Hapoel Be'er Sheva supporters who had already booked flights and hotels to Amsterdam will now be unable to attend the game. Alkmaar has already begun selling tickets to their own supporters.

Hapoel Be'er Sheva had previously advised its fans against purchasing travel and accommodation for away games due to uncertainty regarding the reception of Israeli teams and fans in some European destinations. The club's match against Union SG in Belgium will be played in Dusseldorf, Germany, without spectators. Additionally, uncertainty remains about the match against Besiktas in Turkey, which is currently scheduled for Istanbul but may be moved to Georgia due to high security tensions between Israel and Turkey, pending final approval.