Istanbul, Turkey – In a sudden turn of events, the highly anticipated UEFA Europa League match between Besiktas and Maccabi Tel Aviv on November 28 will no longer take place in Turkey.
Turkish state authorities have imposed a ban on hosting the fixture domestically, citing concerns over potential “provocative actions” as tensions between Turkey and Israel continue to intensify.
Besiktas, known for their passionate fan base and formidable home stadium atmosphere, expressed disappointment in a club statement, emphasizing that all necessary permits had initially been obtained to host the match at their home stadium.
The statement conveyed the club’s frustration over the relocation, which they say disrupts their preparations and denies them the advantage of playing before their dedicated supporters.
“Despite all necessary permits being obtained from UEFA to host the UEFA Europa League match against Maccabi Tel Aviv on November 28, 2024, at our stadium, the Turkish state authorities have decided that the match will be played in a neutral country due to the possibility of provocative actions,” the statement read.
The club further reassured fans of their commitment to the game, regardless of the relocation, stating, “As Besiktas, a club with a 121-year history that has never shied away from any sporting challenge, we will approach this UEFA Europa League match with the same determination and sportsmanship, regardless of where or under what conditions it is played.”
The Turkish side currently finds itself in need of a boost in the Europa League, having managed only one win in its opening three group stage matches.
Besiktas now face the logistical and strategic challenge of adapting to a neutral location, and the club awaits confirmation on whether fans will be permitted to attend.
UEFA Backs Decision by Turkish Authorities
UEFA, the governing body for European football, initially granted Besiktas permission to host the match in Turkey.
However, the Turkish authorities’ decision ultimately prevailed, with UEFA respecting the nation’s security concerns. In its own statement, UEFA confirmed the match would take place at a neutral venue, which has yet to be determined.
“Following a decision by the Turkish authorities, the UEFA Europa League match between Besiktas and Maccabi Tel Aviv on 28 November 2024 will take place at a neutral venue.
UEFA is in contact with Besiktas to find an alternative neutral venue, which will be announced in due course,” read the UEFA statement.
While discussions between Besiktas and UEFA continue, finding a suitable venue is a top priority, as the fixture carries significant weight for both clubs.
Maccabi Tel Aviv, too, enters this game in search of their first victory in the Europa League group stage, adding to the stakes.
Fan Reaction and Uncertain Attendance
Besiktas fans, who are famous for creating one of Europe’s most intense matchday atmospheres, will feel the impact of this decision acutely.
While Besiktas encouraged their supporters to stay sensitive to the broader political situation, uncertainty lingers around fan attendance at the neutral location, a detail yet to be confirmed by UEFA.
Besiktas is expected to release a follow-up statement clarifying the venue and attendance protocols as discussions progress.
Meanwhile, with just three weeks until the scheduled match, both clubs are left navigating new logistical challenges and awaiting updates that could affect the flow of their Europa League campaigns.