A Greek Judge Summons Olympiakos Chairman in Sports-Related Violence Case

ATHENS (GCT) - A Greek judge has summoned Evangelos Marinakis, chairman of the Olympiakos football club, along with four board members, to address misdemeanour charges linked to an investigation into sports violence.

Marinakis, a prominent figure with holdings in shipping and media, also owns Nottingham Forest, an English Premier League team. Both he and the board members vehemently deny any wrongdoing. In Greece, the judicial process has multiple preparatory phases, and the charges at this stage do not necessarily lead to a trial.

The group is set to formally counter allegations in December. These allegations involve supporting a criminal organization associated with Olympiakos fans and inciting sports violence, according to statements made by two lawyers on Tuesday.

Marinakis’ lawyer, Vassilis Dimakopoulos, commented to Reuters, stating: "They are absolutely innocent. The notion that they have committed these acts lacks a basis and will eventually be disproven, either by the judicial council or in court."

Another prominent figure involved, Olympiakos Vice President and Piraeus Mayor Giannis Moralis, who has been summoned as well, denied any wrongdoing. In a Facebook post dated November 19th, he criticized what he described as the "discriminating treatment" faced by the sports club.

Under Greek law, court authorities are prohibited from commenting on ongoing cases.

Violence in Greek sports has been a pressing issue, with incidents occurring frequently both on and off the field. Authorities have repeatedly vowed to tackle hooliganism. This particular investigation was initiated following the death of a riot police officer, who was struck by a flare during a clash with Olympiakos fans outside a volleyball match in December 2023.