Belgian Mayor Blocks Union Sint-Gillis' European Home Match in Leuven
Leuven's mayor, Mohamed Ridouani, has stated that Union Sint-Gillis cannot play their European home match against Hapoel Be'er Sheva in Leuven's stadium Den Dreef, citing safety concerns. This decision was made after a discussion at the city council meeting on Monday evening.
Union Sint-Gillis vs Hapoel Be'er Sheva · 2026-09-01 15:06:36
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According to VRT NWS, the match on 22 October will not be welcome in Leuven's stadium Den Dreef, as Ridouani believes the safety cannot be guaranteed. This is not the first time a football match has been banned from being played in Den Dreef due to safety risks, as Belgian national team matches were also not allowed to be played in the stadium for the same reason in the past.
However, Union Sint-Gillis' matches against Celtic, Real Sociedad and Lech Poznan can still be played in Den Dreef, according to VRT NWS. Union Sint-Gillis is now aware of the decision and will work with the relevant parties to find a solution. As soon as it is clear where the match can be played, the club will inform their supporters.
