Deputy Sports Minister Yannis Vroutsis emphasized that it is crucial for all clubs to participate in Wednesday’s meeting, following his letter to Dimitris Giannakopoulos and the Angelopoulos brothers.
“The government has demonstrated courage, boldness, foresight, and determination. About a year and a half ago, we initiated a significant legislative effort that is perhaps unprecedented in Europe. Other countries, like Sweden, have even adopted the Greek model,” stated Vroutsis in response to sports violence during an interview on ERT.
Addressing the fan culture in basketball and football, he noted, “What occurred yesterday was unrelated to the fans; there were no firecrackers or objects thrown onto the pitch. It was about the players, and that does not reflect well on the sport or its values. We should take pride in the level of Greek basketball in Europe.”
Vroutsis reminded everyone that “not long ago, I made the decision to postpone Wednesday’s game between Panathinaikos and Olympiacos,” and stressed the importance of a collaborative agreement among the clubs. “Whatever transpired, we must move forward in sport and basketball. I am asking for a joint statement from both teams, demonstrating commitment to continue the league free from unacceptable behavior. Rivalry should be conducted respectfully, for the sake of sportsmanship.”
He added, “This moral commitment should also be reflected in the media.”
Vroutsis asserted, “It is in neither Panathinaikos nor Olympiacos’s interest to skip this meeting. Anyone who fails to attend will bear the consequences. If both are present, they should commit to maintaining the honor of this prestigious sport, enjoyed by thousands of passionate fans in Greece and beyond.”
He stated, “We cannot accept such conduct from the players, and that must change.”
Furthermore, he declared that without a moral commitment, “the league will come to a halt right here in my office.”
Vroutsis added, “It is time for other institutions to take responsibility, and since they have not, the state will intervene. We will take full responsibility and push for change in sport. Greece deserves better.”
When asked about the possibility of games being held behind closed doors, he remarked, “We are determined to pursue a comprehensive solution. We will convene on Wednesday at 3 o’clock to decide based on the will of the stakeholders—not the fans, who passionately support their teams, but those who provoke tensions. We will either move forward or not.”
Ask me anything
Explore related questions
