Gate 7 (Greek: Θύρα 7, romanized: Thira 7) is the most prominent organized supporters’ group and ultras association of Olympiacos CFP, a multi‑sport club based in Piraeus, Greece. The group is known for its passionate match‑day choreography, vocal support, and extensive network of local and international sub‑links.
Organization and affiliations
- Founded: 1980 – present
- Type: Supporters’ group, ultras
- Club supported: Olympiacos CFP
- Location: Piraeus, Greece (with branches in Cyprus, the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Australia, and other Greek diaspora communities)
- Home venues: Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium (football) and Peace and Friendship Stadium (basketball)
- Colors: Red and white (the colours of Olympiacos)
- International affiliations: Delije (supporters of Red Star Belgrade) and Fratria (supporters of FC Spartak Moscow)
Historical background
The name “Gate 7” derives from the seventh gate of the historic Karaiskakis Stadium, where the group’s most ardent members originally gathered to watch Olympiacos matches. Early supporters were based in gate 13, but shifted to gate 7 in the early 1970s due to lower ticket prices. Pre‑existing fan organisations included SAFOP (Association of Athenian Olympiacos Piraeus Fans) and SFOP (Association of Fans of Piraeus Olympiacos), founded in 1957.
Gate 7’s membership is organized into “generations” and numerous local clubs (e.g., “Kaminia,” “Moschato,” “Misfits” in Kallithea, “Brahami‑Ilioupoli,” “Koridallos,” “Nea Liosia,” “Pagrati”). The association currently maintains more than 150 sub‑links worldwide, reflecting its broad diaspora presence.
Notable events
- Karaiskakis Stadium disaster (8 February 1981): A crush at gate 7 during a Super League match between Olympiacos and AEK Athens resulted in the deaths of 21 fans (20 Olympiacos supporters and one AEK fan). The tragedy is commemorated annually by the group and has become a central element of its identity.
- Modern activities: Gate 7 is recognized for elaborate “koreo” displays, coordinated chants, and support across Olympiacos’ football, basketball, and other sports teams. The group also engages in charitable initiatives and maintains a strong online presence through websites such as gate7.gr.
Cultural significance
Gate 7 is regarded as one of the most influential ultras groups in Greek sport, noted for its large, organized fan base and for fostering a sense of community among Olympiacos supporters both within Greece and abroad. Its affiliations with other European ultras groups underscore its role in the broader ultras subculture.