Arson attack targets car of international handball referee

On Saturday, October 17, 2026, around 16:20, an arson attack targeted the vehicle of international handball referee Giorgos Panagidis at his residence. The fire, which initially started in one car, spread to a second vehicle located in the same yard. No injuries were reported, but the incident has prompted a significant response from the sports community.

The Cyprus Handball Federation (KOX) issued a statement condemning the act as criminal and expressing its full support for Panagidis and his family. The Federation described the referee as a person of integrity and professionalism, emphasizing that violence and intimidation have no place in sports. KOX has demanded a thorough investigation by the authorities to identify those responsible.

While the exact cause of the fire is currently being investigated by the Electromechanical Service, the federation has warned that if a link to the handball community is established, it will take strict measures against those involved. The authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances of the attack, which remains unresolved at this stage.