Evangelos Marinakis, the 58-year-old owner of Nottingham Forest and Olympiacos, has appeared in court in Athens to face charges relating to allegations of football hooliganism and involvement in a criminal organization.

Marinakis Accused of Inciting Violence and Supporting Criminal Activity

Marinakis, alongside four Olympiacos board members, has been charged with two misdemeanors:

• Instigating violence through public statements, and
• Supporting a criminal organization

These charges reportedly cover a period between 2019 and 2024. Represented in court by his lawyer, Vassilis Dimakopoulos, Marinakis has strongly denied the accusations.

“The accusations are totally baseless,” Marinakis’ lawyer told BBC Sport.

Charges Stem from Deadly 2023 Football Clashes

The case is linked to the death of 31-year-old riot police officer George Lyngeridis, who passed away weeks after being struck by a flare during violent clashes outside a women’s volleyball match between Olympiacos and rival club Panathinaikos in 2023.

A total of 142 fans are also on trial, charged with involvement in a criminal organization and causing life-threatening explosions at sporting events. Seven are accused of leading the alleged criminal outfit. All defendants deny any wrongdoing.

Inside the High-Security Trial in Athens

• The trial is being heard in a specially designed courtroom near Korydallos high-security prison due to the large number of defendants and witnesses — more than 140 accused and over 220 witnesses.
• Proceedings began with heavy police presence, security checks, and strict entry protocols.
• The case is being overseen by a panel of three senior judges, who will rule by majority decision.
• The first session lasted only 90 minutes, starting late due to logistical delays.
• The next hearing is scheduled for 25 November 2025.

What’s at Stake?

As a prominent football figure with ownership in two major clubs — England’s Nottingham Forest and Greece’s Olympiacos — Marinakis’ legal battle is drawing widespread attention across Europe. The outcome of this long-running trial could have significant repercussions in both Greek and international football scenes.