Greece’s decision to allow matches in its top league football to be played with fans starting from February 13 marks a significant shift after a period of stringent restrictions.
This decision comes approximately two months after Greek Super League clubs were mandated to play behind closed doors.
In Greece, incidents of violence between football fans and clubs are common, presenting an ongoing challenge for the government, which has been striving for years to reform the sport.
The football scene is marred by the presence of criminal gangs and a minority of fans prone to violence.
Tragically, in December, a 31-year-old police officer succumbed to injuries sustained during violent clashes that erupted during a volleyball match held by Olympiacos in Piraeus, near Athens.
The officer was critically injured by a flare, highlighting the severity of the situation and the urgent need for measures to address violence in sports.
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The government announced on Wednesday that fans will be permitted to attend Greek Super League 1 matches starting February 13, albeit with stricter regulations in place.
Deputy Sports Minister Yiannis Vroutsis informed reporters that in the event of violence occurring during a match, a designated committee will levy significant fines and mandate clubs to play their subsequent fixture without spectators present.
This stern approach underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining order and ensuring the safety of all stakeholders involved in Greek football.
“In case a dangerous object falls on the pitch, the pitch will close for the next fixture,” Vroutsis said. “It’s the state’s duty to safeguard security.”
From next month, football and basketball teams will need to have surveillance cameras installed at pitches and courts to be able to have fans at their matches.
Beginning April 9, an additional requirement will be implemented for fans wishing to attend matches: they must verify their identity using a Greek government mobile phone application upon entering the sports venue.
This new measure aims to enhance security and streamline the process of identifying individuals attending matches.
