A strongly worded statement from Aris FC, in which the club expresses its opposition to Yiannis Vroutsis’s decision to ban Heraklis fans from traveling to “Kleanthis Vikelidis” stadium for Saturday’s game.

Specifically, the “Yellows” describe the decision as unthinkable and incomprehensible, emphasizing, among other things, that: “You are exposed to the judgment of sports-loving public opinion, and specifically that of Thessaloniki”!

Here is the full text of the Aris FC statement: “The decision by the Deputy Minister of Sports, Mr. Yiannis Vroutsis to ban Heraklis fans from attending our match this Saturday at Kleanthis Vikelidis Stadium is unthinkable and incomprehensible.

It defies all logic, given that there is an agreement between the two soccer clubs (as well as among the fans) to exchange tickets for our two matches this year, which means we fully assume responsibility for this action.

Some people are free to go wherever they wish, while we are confined to our own city. We do not understand why Mr. Vroutsis does not allow ticket exchanges and the attendance of Heraklis fans at Kleanthis Vikelidis Stadium, given that fans of Athens-based professional soccer clubs can follow their teams to Volosor Livadeia, yet in this case he is prohibiting travel within Thessaloniki.

Cameras, Electronic Tickets, and…Hypocrisy

Your hypocrisy is glaringly obvious behind this decision, Mr. Vroutsis—all the more so since this year’s legislation is stricter than ever (cameras everywhere, electronic tickets, etc.).

You yourself are “shooting yourself in the foot” when it comes to soccer and the efforts you claim to be making so that we might one day have visiting fans at the games. You are in the crosshairs of sports-loving public opinion, and specifically that of Thessaloniki.

You cannot make decisions on a whim, nor can you serve special interests. The Age of the… Dragon is over: Get with the times and reverse this decision!

We therefore call on you personally, along with your superior, the Minister of Citizen Protection, Mr. Chrysochoidis, as well as the Chief of Police of Thessaloniki, Mr. Tzimas, to reconsider your decision at the very last moment.

For the sake of soccer. Otherwise, the sports-loving public will judge you by the same high standards when the time comes…”.