Greece remains in shock following the tragic accident in Romania that claimed the lives of seven PAOK supporters. The bodies of the seven fans will be flown back to Thessaloniki’s “Macedonia” airport aboard a C-130 aircraft of the Hellenic Air Force.
Members of PAOK fan clubs will be present at the airport to bid a final farewell. The clubs issued a statement urging fans to attend and escort the bodies to Toumba Stadium:
“We cannot yet believe the tragic accident. Tomorrow afternoon, we expect the repatriation of our seven brothers on a military aircraft. We invite all fans with motorcycles to meet at Macedonia Airport to accompany them to Toumba Stadium. Those without motorcycles can gather outside Gate 4 to pay their last respects.”
PAOK honours the victims
In memory of the seven fans, PAOK displayed eight jerseys with their names and the number “12,” along with an additional jersey reading “Immortal” marked with the tragic date, 27 January 2026. An eighth jersey honours a 54-year-old fan from Larissa who suffered a cardiac arrest upon learning of the seven deaths.
Details of the accident
The seven fans were travelling by road to France for a Europa League match against Lyon, alongside three others who survived with injuries. Their van attempted to overtake on the DN6-E70 highway near Lugojelul but collided head-on with a truck while returning to its lane.
Authorities reported that the three survivors were seated by the windows on the right side of the vehicle, in the front passenger and middle rows.
Memorial at Toumba Stadium
Gate 4 of Toumba Stadium remains open on Wednesday, 28 January, from 10:00 to 22:00 for those wishing to pay tribute. Fans of all ages have visited, leaving candles, scarves, and team flags. A memorial service was held at 14:30 by the Metropolitan of Thessaloniki.
PAOK’s organised supporters also decided that the visiting fans’ stand at Lyon’s stadium will remain closed on Thursday night as a mark of respect.
Medical evacuation for injured fans
On Thursday morning, a specially equipped aircraft from the Ministry of Health will depart Elefsina Air Base to Romania to transport the three injured Greek fans, aged 20 (two) and 28, to Papageorgiou Hospital in Thessaloniki.
Source: CNN Greece, Proto Thema, Philenews
Also read: Victims of PAOK crash in Romania to be repatriated today
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