Belgian mayor blocks club from hosting Israeli opponent in Europa League
Summary
A Belgian mayor is not allowing the city of Leuven to host the Israeli soccer team Hapoel Beer-Sheva for a Europa League match. Union Saint-Gilloise, the home team, must find a different place for the game scheduled on October 22.Key Facts
- Union Saint-Gilloise will play Hapoel Beer-Sheva in a Europa League match on October 22.
- Union wanted to host the match in Leuven because their Brussels stadium does not meet UEFA rules.
- Leuven’s mayor, Mohamed Ridouani, refused to allow the game, citing public safety concerns.
- The mayor also does not allow Belgium’s national teams to play against Israel in Leuven.
- UEFA said it is Union’s job to find another stadium for the match.
- Since attacks on Israel in October 2023, Israeli teams must play home games in neutral countries.
- Hapoel Beer-Sheva has played home games in Hungary and Romania this season.
- It is unusual for Israeli teams’ away games to be moved to other locations.
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