In Athens, a decision by the Greek government led to the suspension of the Greek basketball league finals between rivals Panathinaikos and Olympiakos on Monday, due to on-court altercations among their respective security teams.
The championship series currently stands at one win each between the two teams, but the third game, which was supposed to take place on Wednesday, has been put on hold.
The fierce rivalry ignited an intervention where both club owners were called to meet with the sports minister of Greece.
“These individuals will be required to provide specific assurances to resolve this escalating situation. Failing this, this year’s championship may be permanently canceled,” stated government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis.
“The tolerance for such violent and delinquent conduct is zero,” he added.
However, in their online statements, the club owners have declined to partake in a joint meeting arranged by the sports minister, thus casting uncertainty over the ultimatum set by the government.
The intense rivalry between these Athens-based clubs, which extends across basketball, soccer, and other sports, is notorious for its violence.
Despite recent governmental initiatives, which include stadium surveillance systems and mandatory ticketing linked to identification, the unrest persists.
Olympiakos and Panathinaikos made recent appearances in the EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi, where they finished third and fourth, respectively, after Fenerbahce’s win over Monaco in the finals.
In the most recent match held at Peace and Friendship Stadium, Olympiakos emerged victorious, yet the event was tarnished by several incidents.
Notably, Panathinaikos’ owner, Dimitris Giannakopoulos, was removed at halftime after a heated confrontation with referees, while their coach, Ergin Ataman, was ejected after a second technical foul during the fourth quarter.
Television broadcasts captured the tense scenes, showing security from both factions clashing as Giannakopoulos exited, contributing to the tense atmosphere.
Panathinaikos issued a statement labeling the referee’s performance as “disgraceful” and partial.
In response, Olympiakos co-chairman Giorgos Angelopoulos criticized Giannakopoulos, alleging abuse.
“He embodies toxicity and defines violence,” Angelopoulos asserted. “His presence in Greek sports coupled with such behavior is intolerable.”
Angelopoulos further stated, “A simple apology is not enough. Let Panathinaikos supporters embrace him as a tough figure. His kind is not welcome here.”
Home Greek Basketball Finals Halted Amid Renewed Rivalry Discord