Greek football disciplinary and security measures

Disciplinary actions and security measures have emerged within the Stoiximan Super League following tensions in Thessaloniki.

Following a derby at Toumba Stadium, PAE Aris owner Theodoros Karpidis received a 15-day ban from entering playing areas and locker rooms after a verbal altercation with a PAOK representative. The disciplinary body also issued various financial penalties to clubs including PAOK, Olympiacos, Panathinaikos, and AEK.

In a separate security development, Deputy Minister of Sports Giannis Vroutsis finalized a decision to ban organized Iraklis fans from the upcoming Thessaloniki derby against Aris. This measure, prompted by Hellenic Police security concerns, prohibits the sale of tickets to visiting supporters and overrides a prior agreement between the clubs intended to allow peaceful coexistence in the stands. The Iraklis amateur branch criticized the decision, characterizing it as “artificial panic.”

The upcoming derby at Kleanthis Vikelidis Stadium will proceed without traveling Iraklis supporters. Aris FC has joined the protest against the restriction, describing the move as “unthinkable and incomprehensible.” The club argued that the ban defies logic given existing security measures, such as widespread camera surveillance and electronic ticketing.

Iraklis FC has expressed further frustration, suggesting their fans are being treated like “second-class citizens” because they are prohibited from attending a match in their own city while fans of Athenian clubs are permitted to travel elsewhere. While ticket sales for the 5th round Super League match have commenced with prices ranging from 20 to 150 euros, the final decision has effectively closed the possibility of individual Iraklis fans gaining access to Gate 1.