Villa policing row could impact World Cup bid

THE decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from a match at Villa Park prompted questioning over policing as Birmingham City Council (BCC) approved its World Cup bid.

- ALEXANDER BROCK Local Democracy Reporter

The Labour-run council decided at a special meeting to move ahead with plans to bid to become a host city for the 2035 Women's Football World Cup, which is set to be held in the UK.

BCC said hosting the tournament could provide a £100m economic boost, as well as jobs, a legacy for sports and an opportunity to showcase the city on a global stage.

But one concern raised during Monday's meeting was the decision by Birmingham's Safety Advisory Group (SAG) that Maccabi Tel Aviv should not be permitted to attend next month's Europa League game against Aston Villa.

In a statement issued last week, Villa said West Midlands Police had advised the SAG that they have “public safety concerns outside the stadium bowl and the ability to deal with any potential protests on the night”.

The decision sparked a huge political row, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer describing it as “wrong”.

Cllr Robert Alden, leader of the Tory opposition at BCC, welcomed the bid but raised a question over policing amid this backdrop.