The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for Turkey as thousands of British football fans prepare to travel to Istanbul for the UEFA Europa League Final on Wednesday, 20 May. The match between Aston Villa FC and SC Freiburg is expected to draw large crowds, and attendees are urged to plan their journeys carefully and follow local authority advice.
In its updated guidance, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advises fans to sign up for travel alerts and check official club and UEFA event guides. The FCDO also warns of a heightened risk of terrorism, advising against all travel within 10km of the Syrian border and urging vigilance in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul.
Brits are also cautioned about potential demonstrations linked to tensions in Israel and Palestine, which have occurred outside diplomatic missions in major cities. The FCDO advises avoiding all demonstrations and leaving the area if one develops, as local transport routes may be disrupted.
Additional safety concerns include pickpocketing, counterfeit banknotes and food or drink spiking. The FCDO recommends remaining aware of surroundings and keeping up to date with local media reports.
