In a recent FIBA Europe Cup match, MZT Skopje faced Iraklis with a final score of 59-64, but the game was overshadowed by serious tensions in the crowd.
Home fans of MZT Skopje sparked a significant incident by displaying a banner featuring the flag and map of “Greater Macedonia.”
Details of the Flag and Map Incident
The banner depicted regions currently within North Macedonia as well as parts of Greece, including Halkidiki, and areas from Serbia, Albania, and Bulgaria. The banner also included the symbol of the Sun of Vergina, with a message proclaiming: “We will defend your holy name around the world.”
The concept of “Greater Macedonia” is associated with nationalist and irredentist ideas, advocating for the unification of territories historically considered part of the region of Macedonia, now located in Greece, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania.
This notion is particularly sensitive for Greece, as the Greek region of Macedonia holds significant historical and symbolic importance linked to figures such as Philip II and Alexander the Great.
According to sportal.blic.rs, Iraklis promptly lodged a complaint with the match’s delegate and alerted the Greek Embassy, which took immediate action.
The Greek Embassy stated, “We have drawn attention to the fact that the message and symbolism of the banner contradict the obligations and spirit of the Prespa Agreement. Consequently, the situation has been reported to the authorities in North Macedonia through diplomatic channels.”
The Prespa Agreement, signed on June 17, 2018, is an international treaty between Greece and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (now North Macedonia) that resolved a longstanding dispute regarding the country’s name.
It remains unclear whether MZT Skopje will face any repercussions for the symbols displayed during the match.
