Seven Fans Killed En Route to Europa League

A tragic road accident in western Romania on Tuesday claimed the lives of seven Greek football supporters travelling to watch their team, PAOK Salonika, in a Europa League fixture, AFP has reported. The incident has sent shockwaves through the Greek football community, highlighting the risks faced by travelling fans.

The fatal collision occurred when a minibus carrying the supporters collided head-on with a truck. Local authorities confirmed that, in addition to the seven fatalities, three other passengers sustained serious injuries and were immediately transported to nearby hospitals for urgent medical attention. Investigators are examining road conditions, vehicle speeds, and visibility at the time of the crash to determine the exact cause.

In response to the tragedy, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed his profound sorrow via social media. “I am deeply saddened by the loss of seven young Greek citizens in this horrific accident in Romania. My heartfelt condolences go out to their families and to the entire PAOK Salonika football community,” he stated, emphasising the collective grief felt across the nation.

PAOK Salonika’s president, Ivan Savvidis, described the incident as an “indescribable tragedy” and extended his sympathies to the bereaved families. The club has announced plans to honour the memory of the deceased fans during tomorrow’s Europa League match against Lyon, underscoring the deep bond between the team and its supporters.

The accident has raised broader concerns about the safety of fan travel for international matches. Experts have highlighted the need for stricter safety protocols, including professional transport arrangements, speed regulations, and enhanced road monitoring, particularly during high-traffic periods for sporting events.

A summary of the incident is provided below:

Local authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, while PAOK supporters across Greece and beyond have begun paying tribute to those lost. Memorials and vigils are being organised, reflecting the profound impact of the event on the football community.

This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with fan travel, particularly on international journeys for major tournaments. Clubs, fans, and authorities are now facing renewed calls to prioritise safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.