Vangelis Marinakis diagnosed with coronavirus with Olympiacos matches to be played behind closed doors

·

Greek shipowner and owner of Olympiacos Football Club, Vangelis Marinakis, has contracted the rapidly-spreading COVID-19 virus, he communicated on Tuesday through his Facebook account.

“The new virus has ‘visited’ me and I have been forced to inform the public. I feel good because I am taking the necessary measures and following all the medical advice. I strongly advise all my fellow citizens to do the same. I wish everyone a prompt recovery, “said Marinakis.

Marinakis’ diagnosis adds to the growing coronavirus fears in Greek sport, with the upcoming UEFA Europa League match between Olympiacos and Wolves match to be played behind doors in fear of spreading the virus.

Read More: Public barred from 2020 Olympic flame lighting ceremony in Greece

Greece has also announced the cancellation of all events with more than 1,000 participants, including the highly anticipated half marathon in Athens scheduled for March 22.

The decision to cancel the half-marathon was adopted by the municipality of Athens and the Hellenic Athletics Federation (SEGAS) for precautionary reasons.

The lighting of the Olympic torch will also be held this Thursday without a public audience.

Greece’s Olympic Committee said spectators would be excluded from both the dress rehearsal at the ancient site on Wednesday and the widely broadcast ceremony on Thursday.

“The lighting ceremony of the Olympic flame will be done without the presence of spectators and only 100 invited and accredited guests,” the Greek Olympic Committee said in a statement.

Coronavirus cases in Greece have hit 89, with thankfully no deaths so far, yet with one person in critical condition.

Italy’s prime minister Giuseppe Conte is urging people to stay at home. Photo: Sky News

Greece’s neighbour, Italy, has been hit with Europes worst infection and death rate of the COVID-19 virus. Deaths in Italy have reached 463, an increase of almost 100 in a 24-hour period, and more than 9,000 confirmed infections in just over two weeks.

All sports events in Italy, including Italian football’s Serie A competition, were suspended until further notice. 

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Funding boost for The Cottage Kitchen’s community meal program

The Cottage Kitchen run by the St Nectarios Parish and Community in Burwood, Sydney has received a welcome boost, with a $3,171 grant awarded

Rebetiko revival: Melbourne event transports guests to the heart of 1920s Greece

The Hellenic Women's Network of Victoria, in collaboration with EEAMA, hosted a vibrant cultural afternoon dedicated to Rebetiko.

Builder George Lavrentiadis faces jail after illegally flattening historic SA beach shacks

George Lavrentiadis has apologised in court after illegally demolishing two historic beach shacks on South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula.

Joe Palatsides joins CommBank Matildas as Assistant Coach

Joe Palatsides has been appointed Assistant Coach of the CommBank Matildas, as part of a strategic refresh of the team’s technical staff.

Michael Theo scores first Logie nomination for role in ‘Austin’

Michael Theo has been nominated for a Silver Logie for Best Lead Actor in a Comedy for his performance in the ABC’s series Austin.

You May Also Like

Greek PM sees pandemic stabilising, eyes May reopening to tourists

Greece should be able to open up for tourists from May 15, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis confirmed on Wednesday.

Iconic Kensington restaurant Grotta Capri faces demolition for new housing

A once-iconic Sydney restaurant is set to disappear as the former Grotta Capri site in Kensington is approved for redevelopment.

Greece comes from behind to win 2-1 against Finland in UEFA European qualifier

Two second-half goals by Petros Mantalos and Kostas Galanopoulos saw Greece come from behind and beat Finland 2-1 in Athens as it completed its...