Published: 23:21, 19 October 2025 | Updated: 23:21, 19 October 2025

The Tel Aviv football derby has been cancelled over the 'risk to human lives' after riots broke out inside and outside the stadium. 

The match was thrown into chaos on Sunday night as violent riots broke out at Bloomfield Stadium, forcing police to call off the high-profile clash between Hapoel and Maccabi.

Israeli police confirmed that the game was cancelled 'following disturbances and risks to human life' after ugly scenes erupted before kick-off leading to the arrest of nine people. 

In a statement, officers said: 'Dozens of smoke grenades and pyrotechnic devices were thrown, injuring 12 civilians and three police officers. Forces at the scene arrested nine suspects and detained 16 others for questioning.'

Footage released by police shows flares and projectiles being hurled onto the pitch as supporters clashed with riot officers, with chaos also spilling into the streets outside the stadium.

A spokesperson for Maccabi Tel Aviv said: 'Following the police's decision, it was determined that the Tel Aviv derby will not take place tonight.'

The game, the first...