World News
Belgian mayor bars Union Saint-Gilloise from hosting Israeli team in Leuven
Leuven's mayor cited safety concerns in blocking the Europa League match against Hapoel Beer-Sheva, requiring the Belgian club to secure an alternate venue.
The short version
- Leuven Mayor Mohamed Ridouani denied permission for Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise to host Israeli opponent Hapoel Beer-Sheva on October 22.
- The decision was justified on public safety grounds, extending a local policy against hosting matches involving Israeli teams.
- UEFA confirmed that Union Saint-Gilloise must find a replacement venue, with an announcement expected shortly.
Key facts
- Leuven Mayor Mohamed Ridouani refused to permit the October 22 Europa League fixture between Union Saint-Gilloise and Hapoel Beer-Sheva to take place in the city.[Al Jazeera]
- Ridouani cited public safety as the reason for the refusal, noting that even playing behind closed doors would not be permitted.[Al Jazeera]
- Union Saint-Gilloise planned to host its European home matches in Leuven because its Brussels stadium does not comply with UEFA competition standards.[Al Jazeera]
- UEFA stated that the host club bears the responsibility to arrange an alternative stadium for the fixture.[Al Jazeera]
What remains uncertain
- The replacement stadium and location for the October 22 fixture have not yet been determined or announced.[Al Jazeera]