Greek sports authorities ban away fan travel for Aris vs. Iraklis match

Greek Deputy Minister of Sports Giannis Vroutsis has issued a formal ban on the organized and individual travel of Iraklis fans for Saturday's match against Aris at the Kleanthis Vikelidis Stadium in Thessaloniki. The decision follows a recommendation from the Hellenic Police, which cited security concerns and the need for a smooth conduct of the game as the primary reasons for the restriction.

This ruling has sparked significant dissatisfaction from both clubs, who had previously reached a mutual agreement to allow away fans at both matches this season. Aris FC released a sharp statement criticizing the Ministry's decision as illogical and incomprehensible, noting that they had taken full responsibility for hosting the visitors and questioning why such restrictions are applied despite existing agreements between the clubs.

The prohibition remains in effect for the upcoming weekend fixture, marking a significant departure from the clubs' original plans to promote an inclusive derby atmosphere. The clubs had hoped to facilitate ticket exchanges to allow supporters of both teams to attend, but the state's intervention has effectively overruled this, leaving the match to proceed without the presence of the visiting team's supporters.