[Saba Sports News] A heart-wrenching accident occurred on the eve of the UEFA Europa League match between PAOK Thessaloniki and Olympique Lyonnais, as a minibus carrying more than a dozen PAOK fans crashed en route to Lyon, France, claiming the lives of at least seven supporters. The tragedy unfolded on a stretch of road near Lugoj in Timiș County, Romania, when the minibus lost control while attempting an overtaking maneuver in the oncoming lane and collided head-on with a fuel tanker. The impact sent the minibus veering into the opposite lane, leaving the vehicle completely wrecked.
Upon learning of the disaster, PAOK Thessaloniki announced it would fly its flag at half-mast in mourning. Fans gathered at the Toumba Stadium to lay flowers in tribute, with manager Mircea Lucescu and the first-team squad visiting the ground to pay their respects. A number of supporters also chose to abandon their trip to Lyon for the match.
Local police have launched an investigation into the exact cause of the crash, focusing on whether the overtaking maneuver was conducted in compliance with traffic regulations and the impact of weather conditions on road safety. PAOK had requested a postponement of the fixture against Lyon, but the request was declined by UEFA. A minute’s silence and other commemorative tributes will nonetheless be observed before the match as a mark of respect for the deceased.
This devastating incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety for football fans travelling across borders for matches, urging all to abandon any reckless or complacent attitudes. It also calls on the wider sports community to attach greater importance to ensuring the travel safety of supporters and take concrete measures to prevent such tragedies from happening again.
May the departed fans rest in peace, and wish the injured a speedy and full recovery.