Red Alert Austria: Security Measures for Match in Linz

Red alert level Austria is declared for the Nations‑League‑Duell against Israel on Thursday in Linz. Due to the tense political situation, especially high security measures apply. According to CEO Bernhard Neuhold, the ÖFB has been in close coordination with the authorities and the representatives of the guest team for some time.

Organization and Demonstrations

On match day, two demonstrations related to the fixture have been registered in Linz, which is why an additional organizational meeting is taking place. Already on the evening before the international match, a Security Meeting is required by UEFA to assess the situation. At the respective times, the officials coordinate the procedures.

UEFA has classified the match as a “High Risk Game” and has dispatched two Security Officer. Both meetings – the evening‑Meeting and the match‑day meeting – include representatives from UEFA, the home football association, the executive, and from Israel.

“It is about taking precautions in all areas. We want all the different target groups to have a safe stadium experience,” Neuhold explained. He emphasized that the situation is being taken seriously, but the team remains confident.

In recent times Austria played two home matches against Israel, in 2019 in Vienna and in 2021 in Klagenfurt. Both games proceeded smoothly, although above‑average security measures were already required at the time.

The Austrians also receive support from security officials from Israel. The Nations‑League return leg takes place on 17 November in Debrecen, not in Tel Aviv or Haifa, with Neuhold highlighting the advantages for the guest association.