Nottingham Forest owner and Olympiacos chief Evangelos Marinakis has gone on trial in Athens, accused of instigating football-related violence and supporting a criminal organisation. The 58-year-old, along with four Olympiacos board members, faces two misdemeanour charges connected to alleged actions between 2019 and 2024. Marinakis, who was represented by his lawyer in court, has strongly rejected the allegations as entirely unfounded.

The case centres on violent clashes outside a women’s volleyball match between Olympiacos and Panathinaikos in 2023, during which 31-year-old riot police officer George Lyngeridis was fatally injured by a flare and later died in hospital. A total of 142 fans are charged with participating in a criminal organisation and causing life-threatening explosions during sporting events, while seven individuals are accused of leading the group. All defendants have denied wrongdoing.

The first day of the trial took place in a specially prepared room next to Korydallos high-security prison due to the large number of defendants and witnesses expected—more than 200 in total. Security was tight, with heavy police presence, ID checks and media restrictions. Proceedings began late but moved swiftly as judges confirmed the attendance of defendants and witnesses. The high-profile trial is expected to last several months, with the next hearing scheduled for 25 November.

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