.png)
Leeds United have publicly apologised to their supporters after confirming that fans will not be permitted to attend any of their pre-season matches during the club’s upcoming tour of Germany.
The club, preparing for a return to the Premier League in the 2025/26 season, will embark on an eight-day training camp in Germany. But despite months of planning and previous guarantees, German police and local authorities have blocked public attendance at the fixtures, prohibited live updates and streaming, and advised Leeds to discourage fan travel.
“Frustratingly, despite having matches agreed for a number of months, we have in the last week been informed that the police and local authorities will once again not grant a permit for us to play matches in front of spectators, will prohibit us from providing live updates and video streams, and have requested we discourage supporter travel,” Leeds said in a statement.
“This comes despite multiple attempts to find a solution including offering various assurances, pursuing alternative scenarios that would allow for fan attendance, and even evaluating moving camp to a different location on short notice. Unfortunately, those efforts were fruitless due to the last second nature of our change in circumstances.”
The club expressed deep regret over the development, acknowledging the impact it would have on their loyal following. “This result is deeply frustrating to all of us, just as it is sure to frustrate and anger you, our loyal supporters, to whom we apologise unreservedly for this outcome.”
Leeds had received written assurances earlier in the year from both the German Football Association and their tour operator that fans could attend this summer’s games. A similar situation unfolded last year when authorities cited the strain of resources following Euro 2024 as the reason for restricting attendance.
Despite the setback in Germany, fans will still have the opportunity to support the team in upcoming friendlies. Leeds will face Manchester United in Stockholm and AC Milan in Dublin, with both matches open to the public. The club will also host Villarreal at Elland Road on 2 August, with ticket details to be released soon.
“We remain excited about our summer friendlies against Manchester United, Villarreal CF, and AC Milan, with tickets available for all three matches, and the opportunity for supporters to travel with the team to Sweden and Ireland,” the club added.
Leeds kick off their Premier League campaign at home against Everton on Monday, 18 August.
Featured Image Credit: Pexels / David Pickup, Unsplash / Jonny Gios
