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This highly anticipated city derby football fixture involving Hapoel and Maccabi was called off following violent disturbances broke out, with Israeli police citing “risks to human life”.

Unrest Erupts at Bloomfield Stadium

The game was scheduled to be held on Sunday night at Bloomfield Stadium, a stadium used by both teams, acting as a home fixture for Hapoel.

Footage shared by the police reveals objects and flares launched onto the pitch, in addition to chaos outside the stadium.

Law Enforcement Detain Suspects and Suffer Injuries

Law enforcement officials announced that they had arrested nine individuals with 16 others for interrogation once the match was called off “following disturbances”.

Police personnel were injured in what was described as “intense clashes”.

“Rioting and chaos, disturbances, injured police officers and damage to infrastructure – this is not a soccer game, it is a breach of order and severe violence.”

Smoke Grenades Lead to Injuries

Authorities added how Numerous smoke bombs and flares were launched, injuring 12 members of the public along with three officers.”

Forces on site arrested nine suspects and detained 16 more for further investigation.

Club Response Confirms Cancellation

The Maccabi statement stated: “Following the authorities' ruling, it was decided that the Tel Aviv derby will not take place tonight.”

Context: Previous Restriction for Maccabi Fans

This event occurred after Maccabi supporters learned last week they would not be allowed to attend November’s European match versus the English side in the UK.

The city's security panel – made up of community representatives, West Midlands police, plus event organisers – said the decision was taken due to an elevated threat of violence stemming from “recent information as well as previous incidents”.

Official Response Regarding the Ban

This move caused controversy, including the prime minister, Keir Starmer, condemning the move and many officials urging for the restriction to be lifted.

“This is the wrong decision. We will not tolerate antisemitism in our communities,” he said. “The duty of the police is to ensure all football fans can watch the match, without fear of unrest or threats.”

Ayoub Khan, the representative for Perry Barr, reaffirmed his opposition to the team's supporters being allowed via a message on X: “Shame on those shameful officials as well as news anchors who confused this matter!”

“It wasn't a religious matter but everything to do about hooligans! These hooligans are unwelcome in our area!”