On February 3, 1908, Giorgos Kalafatis founded the football section of Panathinaikos Athletic Club (Football Club of Athens POA), on the 3rd of February 1908. He was inspired after seeing football as an Olympic game in 1906 Olympics, in which he also participated. He was the first visionary of Panathinaikos idea and the main founder of the Club, assisted by his capable and worthy partners. Their initiative transfused magnitude and glory to the Club which become famous in Greece and well known worldwide.
The birth of a legacy
Giorgos Kalafatis, a young athlete and football enthusiast, established the club in response to the lack of structured football teams in Athens at the time. Dissatisfied with the management of the Panellinios Gymnastics Club, where he initially played, he gathered a group of athletes and formed a new club dedicated solely to football.
Originally named Podosfairikos Omilos Athinon (POA), the club underwent several transformations before adopting the name Panathinaikos Athlitikos Omilos (PAO) in 1924, signifying its ambition to represent all of Athens.
Rise to dominance
Panathinaikos quickly became a dominant force in Greek football, winning its first national championship in 1930. Throughout the decades, the club solidified its reputation as one of Greece’s most successful and popular teams, boasting an unparalleled domestic record and international recognition.
Key achievements:
- 20 Greek Championships (Super League Greece)
- 19 Greek Cups
- 3 Greek Super Cups
- The only Greek club to reach a European Cup final (1971)
The 1971 European cup final
One of Panathinaikos’ greatest achievements came in 1971, when the team, under the guidance of Ferenc Puskás, reached the European Cup final (now the UEFA Champions League). Despite losing 2-0 to Ajax at Wembley Stadium, Panathinaikos remains the only Greek club to have ever played in a European final.
Panathinaikos in modern football
The club has continued to be a key player in Greek football, with a passionate fanbase and a rich history in domestic and European competitions. Despite financial challenges in the last decade, Panathinaikos remains a symbol of Greek football excellence and continues to compete at the highest level.
More than a football club
Beyond football, Panathinaikos is a multi-sport club, excelling in basketball, volleyball, and other disciplines. The basketball division, Panathinaikos BC, is one of the most successful teams in European basketball history, with multiple EuroLeague titles.
A lasting legacy
From its humble beginnings on February 3, 1908, Panathinaikos has grown into a storied club with a century-long tradition. With a rich history, passionate supporters, and a commitment to excellence, Panathinaikos remains a cornerstone of Greek football and sports culture.
Also read: Legendary Greek footballer, Mimis Domazos dies at 83
With information from: pao.gr
