“LEEDS IN TROUBLE and Only UEFA can save the Whites ” – UEFA told to ‘investigate latest Leeds controversy’ as announcement made

UEFA Urged to Probe German Ban on Leeds United Fans Amid Pre-Season Fallout

UEFA has been urged to open an investigation into German authorities following the controversial decision to bar Leeds United fans from attending pre-season matches in the country.

The Championship club issued an apology earlier this week after confirming that supporters are effectively being discouraged from travelling to Germany for the team’s pre-season training camp, sparking backlash from fans and officials alike.

The row centres around the failure of German authorities to grant Leeds United a required permit to allow supporters to attend friendly fixtures this summer—an omission that has been met with widespread condemnation.

Former Premier League referee and respected pundit Keith Hackett has publicly criticised the decision, calling for Europe’s footballing body to step in.

“This is deeply concerning,” Hackett told Football Insider. “UEFA should investigate the situation immediately, as it undermines the integrity of the sport and the fundamental rights of supporters to follow their team.”

Hackett’s comments reflect growing frustration within the fanbase, many of whom had already made arrangements to follow Daniel Farke’s side on their summer tour. The German coach, who is preparing for a crucial campaign after narrowly missing out on Premier League promotion last season, now faces a camp overshadowed by off-field controversy.

Leeds United released a statement earlier this week addressing the situation and expressing regret over the inconvenience caused to fans.

“We are extremely disappointed to confirm that supporters are being discouraged from attending our fixtures during the training camp in Germany due to local restrictions,” a club spokesperson said. “We understand and share the frustration this causes, especially for those who have already committed to travel arrangements. The club is working to find alternative ways to engage with fans during this period.”

The decision has triggered a broader debate about fan access during pre-season, particularly in an era where supporters are asked to show unwavering loyalty and invest heavily in travel, merchandise, and matchday experiences.

Supporters’ groups have criticised the lack of transparency, with some accusing the authorities of poor planning and disregard for fans’ rights.

“This just doesn’t make sense,” one fan told local media. “Why plan a training camp abroad, promote it, and then leave fans out in the cold at the last minute? It’s unacceptable.”

While it remains unclear whether UEFA will formally intervene, the controversy has put pressure on both local German organisers and Leeds United to provide clarity and accountability. The club is believed to be exploring alternative fan engagement activities, including open training sessions and livestreamed matches, though nothing has yet been confirmed.

Daniel Farke’s side are set to begin their pre-season schedule in early July as they prepare for another push for promotion. However, the mood around the camp may remain subdued until a resolution is found—and until fans get the answers they deserve.

Whether UEFA will respond remains to be seen, but the incident has reignited debate over the treatment of supporters at all levels of the game.