Aris vs. Iraklis derby faces fan ban by Deputy Minister

The Thessaloniki derby between Aris and Iraklis returns to the Super League after 15 years. The match is scheduled for September 19 at the Kleanthis Vikelidis Stadium, marking a significant reunion for the two clubs.

However, the fixture is overshadowed by a controversial decision from Deputy Minister of Sports Giannis Vroutsis. Following a recommendation from the Hellenic Police, Vroutsis has banned the presence of Iraklis supporters at the stadium. This decision prevents both organized travel and the sale of tickets to individual Iraklis fans, effectively nullifying a prior agreement between the two clubs to exchange tickets for their matches this season.

Aris FC has issued a strong official statement condemning the ban as “unthinkable and incomprehensible,” arguing that it defies logic given the existing security measures like electronic ticketing and widespread camera surveillance. The club noted that while fans of Athenian teams are permitted to travel to various cities, the movement of Iraklis fans within Thessaloniki is being restricted. The Iraklis amateur association also criticized the move, describing it as creating “artificial panic.”