Israeli FA Chief Blasts Alkmaar Mayor Over Hapoel Beer Sheva Fan Ban
Israeli Football Association chief Shino Zuaretz sharply criticized Alkmaar's mayor for banning Hapoel Beer Sheva fans, threatening to join them outside the stadium.
The head of the Israeli Football Association, Shino Zuaretz, has sent a sharp letter to the mayor of Alkmaar over the decision to ban Hapoel Beer Sheva fans from an upcoming match in the city on October 15. Zuaretz urged local authorities to reconsider the ban, emphasizing that supporters plan to travel regardless and warning that he may join them outside the stadium in solidarity.
Dispute Over Security and Delegation Size
Zuaretz pointed out that the club had already compromised, reducing their initial request to just 200 people, including family members, sponsors, and club officials. He criticized the security justification provided by the municipality, arguing that if local authorities cannot secure a small group of 200, it raises questions about their overall capabilities.
"If local authorities are unable to secure about 200 people, including families and sponsors, I find it hard to understand how anyone can expect them to ensure the security of an entire city," Zuaretz wrote.
Allegations of Antisemitism
According to the IFA chairman, police officials stated there was no security impediment to protecting the delegation. Zuaretz hinted that the ban might stem from anti-Israel sentiment rather than genuine security concerns, noting that fans will still travel to the Netherlands even if locked out of the stadium.
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Club reduced delegation to 200 individuals.
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Local police found no security barrier.
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Zuaretz threatens solidarity protest outside the arena.