Security fears force UEFA to stop foreign referees officiating in Greek play-offs

May 5 - UEFA has ruled out the use of foreign referees in Greek Super League play-off games amid concerns for their safety after a series of incidents. The decision was announced by UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin, who sent a letter to Panagiotis Baltakos, President of Hellenic Football, expressing concern.

“Following our recent correspondence, I must inform you that UEFA has been deeply saddened and very disturbed to learn of another incident regarding the abusive and violent behavior towards the football referees delegated to referee recent matches in the championship Greek," Ceferin said in his letter.

"Despite our joint efforts and in light of recent events, UEFA has reconsidered its support for sending Elite and 'A' category referees to officiate the Greek Super League play-offs 1 and has decided to discontinue this practice for the time being."

Greek officials said the decision was unlikely to impact the remaining rounds of the league playoffs, as the referees had already been selected.

Greece has been plagued by chaos and scandal. Currently, the Helenic Football Federation still cannot decide where to hold the Greek Cup final between AEK Athens and PAOK Thessaloniki due to security concerns.

See 'Fraud', brawls and fury: Greek clubs and their owners play the same old games

Referring to the latest issues, Ceferin said: "These incidents go beyond football, and we are sincerely grateful for your concern about this and for all the tireless efforts of the Hellenic Football Federation and the Greek government. to prevent such things from happening. However, at this time, we must prioritize the safety of our referees, who must be kept away from hostile and dangerous situations."

Contact the author of this story, Aleksander Krassimirov, at moc.l1683381931labto1683381931ofdlr1683381931owedi1683381931sni@o1683381931fni1683381931