A “digital” entry process for fans to attend professional football games in Greece will premier on April 9, part of the government’s bundle of measures to combat hooliganism in the country.
The very popular gov.gr wallet mobile phone app has been chosen by the relevant digital governance ministry to facilitate the mandatory digital registration and subsequent entry of fans into pro football stadiums.
Downloading the necessary app will first require registration on a national registrar – emep.gov.gr – where users enter particulars such as their mobile phone number, email and an address, among others.
Subsequently, fans will request and receive a one-time password (OTP) via SMS with which they will enter the sports venue.
The government had ordered games without fans in the stands in Greece’s Superleague for several weeks after a deadly instance of hooliganism – outside an indoor arena hosting a men’s volleyball game – claimed the life of a riot police officer in early December 2023.
