Gate 13 Sparks Outrage Over Anti-Semitic Attack on Aris

by · Greek City Times

Panathinaikos supporters’ group Gate 13 has sparked widespread condemnation after publishing a statement containing anti-Semitic language directed at Aris Thessaloniki and its supporters, prompting the club to consider legal action.

The controversy erupted following Aris’ victory over Panathinaikos in a basketball match at the packed Alexandreio Melathron in Thessaloniki.

In the aftermath of the defeat, Gate 13, the organised supporters’ group of Panathinaikos, published a provocative statement attacking Aris and its fan base. The announcement included references to the Jewish origins of Aris, using Jewish identity as an insult in a passage that has drawn particular outrage.

The wording prompted a strong response from Aris Alliance, the group of business figures and supporters providing financial backing to the Thessaloniki club.

Read more: NBA Champ Thanasis Antetokounmpo Returns to Greek Basketball

Aris Alliance condemns anti-Semitic language

In its public response, Aris Alliance described the statement as an unacceptable example of anti-Semitic rhetoric, highlighting the use of Jewish heritage as a derogatory reference in an official supporters’ announcement.

The organisation noted that the comments were not simply part of a stadium chant but appeared in a published statement that was subsequently reproduced by several media outlets.

Aris Alliance also called on the official representatives of Panathinaikos to publicly condemn the language used by Gate 13.

The statement went on to emphasise the historical identity of Aris Thessaloniki, describing the club’s ability to unite different religious and ethnic communities as one of its defining characteristics.

It specifically highlighted the city’s Christian, Jewish and Armenian communities, alongside people from different social backgrounds, as part of the club’s wider identity.

Aris Alliance said it considered this diversity a source of pride and rejected attempts to use ethnic or religious origins to discredit the club.

Aris considers legal action

The controversy has also prompted Aris Thessaloniki to consider legal action against the organised supporters of Panathinaikos over the announcement.

The incident has reignited concerns about the presence of racism and anti-Semitism in Greek sport, particularly when discriminatory language moves beyond individual supporters and appears in publicly issued statements.

The comments have also raised questions about the responsibility of organised supporters’ groups and the response expected from the clubs they represent.

The controversy comes amid renewed attention on efforts to combat anti-Semitism and discrimination in Greek football and basketball, with calls for sporting organisations to take a stronger position against hate speech.

Source: emakedonia.gr

SEO title: Gate 13 Sparks Outrage Over Anti-Semitic Attack on Aris

Meta description: Gate 13 faces backlash over an anti-Semitic statement targeting Aris Thessaloniki, as Aris Alliance condemns the language and legal action is considered.

Focus keyphrase: Gate 13 anti-Semitic statement

Slug: gate-13-anti-semitic-statement-aris

Excerpt: Panathinaikos supporters’ group Gate 13 faces condemnation after publishing an anti-Semitic statement targeting Aris Thessaloniki, prompting calls for an official response and possible legal action.

Tags: Aris Thessaloniki, Panathinaikos, Gate 13, Greek basketball, Anti-Semitism, Greek sport, Thessaloniki, Aris Alliance

Stay connected to Greek City Times for Free on Google News
Click NOW
Stay updated with the latest news from Greece and around the world on greekcitytimes.com.
Contact our newsroom to share your updates, stories, photos, or videos. Follow GCT on WhatsApp, Google News and Apple News.

Related coverage

Advertising