Greek league chief to be disciplined over violence

Published November 20, 2014

The chairman of Greek league leader Olympiakos was charged with a sporting violation by a magistrate on Tuesday for fan violence during last weekend's match against rival Panathinaikos.

Vangelis Marinakis, who also heads the Greek league organizers, was summoned to appear in court because of the fans who invaded the field and assaulted Panathinaikos players on Saturday.

Olympiakos won 2-1 and extended its lead to 10 points.

No date was set for Marinakis' hearing — the latest embarrassment for Greek soccer, which was routinely marred by violence.

A second senior Olympiakos official was charged for "violating the sporting spirit of the rules."

Under Greek law, judges preside over sporting violation cases. Punishments typically include playing home games without fans.

Also on Tuesday, the government's top sporting official said fans could be banned from upcoming basketball and volleyball games between Olympiakos and Panathinaikos, amid fears of more clashes.

Government general secretary for sport Panos Bitsaxis said he has asked federations to invite only schoolchildren to watch the March 6 Basketball Cup final and March 2 Volleyball Cup semifinal between the two clubs.

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