New York was draped in blue and white once again to celebrate Greek Independence Day with a grand parade on the 5th Avenue in Manhattan. Among the honored Grand Marshals was Olympiacos President, Mr. Evangelos Marinakis, in recognition of the club’s 100-year anniversary and its recent triumphs in winning two European trophies—the UEFA Europa Conference League and the UEFA Youth League!
Δείτε αυτή τη δημοσίευση στο Instagram.
Greek-American Olympiacos fans paraded on a float decorated in the club’s colors, proudly displaying the two European trophies of the legendary team.
Mr. Marinakis stated: “A truly wonderful parade. We see all Greeks united, along with our brothers from Cyprus. Everyone is celebrating this day that marks our country’s independence. What made a particularly positive impression on me is how close-knit the community is, always helping each other. We see that many have thrived here in America and continue to do even better.”
He added:
“When you live abroad for many years, you long for Greece even more, and moments of joy for your homeland become even more intense. The same goes for Olympiacos. People are very proud of what Olympiacos has achieved in recent years. They are proud of their team and of the recent European Cup victories. We see young people eager to get involved in football. The U.S. is now investing much more in football than in the past, and we see a very positive response. Since football is growing in America, players can also pursue careers in Europe. We see Greek players not only succeeding in Greece but also in Europe and MLS. This is great for young athletes—it inspires them to engage more actively in sports and reach the top.”
Δείτε αυτή τη δημοσίευση στο Instagram.
Alongside the leader of Olympiacos FC, other honored Grand Marshals included General Andrew Poppas and Metropolitan Chrysostomos of Patras. Among the distinguished guests were Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, and former U.S. Ambassador to Greece, Mr. George Tsounis.
At the official gala held the previous evening in honor of the Grand Marshals and all distinguished guests attending the 5th Avenue parade, Olympiacos President Mr. Evangelos Marinakis participated as an official Grand Marshal. During his speech, he stated:
Δείτε αυτή τη δημοσίευση στο Instagram.
“Olympiacos has made all Greeks proud with the two European trophies we won last year with both the men’s and youth teams. I believe it was a great moment for Greece and for every Greek to feel proud of. It also inspired young people in Greece, showing them that they can compete at a high level and win. That is very important for us.”
See images from the 5th Avenue Parade in Manhattan:
