Greek embassy protests banner with 'United Macedonia' map at MZT Skopje–Iraklis game

A banner displaying a map of a so‑called "United Macedonia" that included parts of present‑day Greece prompted a formal diplomatic reaction from the Greek Embassy to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs after the basketball game between MZT Skopje and Iraklis (Thessaloniki).

The match, held on Tuesday at the Jane Sandanski Sports Centre in Skopje as part of the FIBA Europe Cup, became the setting for the controversy when supporters raised a banner reading "We will defend your holy name before the world," accompanied by a 16‑ray sun and a map showing territory extending into Greece, as well as parts of Serbia, Albania and Bulgaria.

Greek embassy: banner contradicts Prespa obligations

In a written reaction, the Greek Embassy said it had raised the issue with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. "We indicated that the content and symbolism of the banner are not in line with the obligations and the spirit of the Prespa Agreement," the Embassy said. According to the Embassy, information received shows the banner was displayed in the presence of the Minister of Sport of North Macedonia.

Greek media reported that Iraklis's leadership protested before the game began, but the banner remained visible throughout the match. The visiting club notified the Greek Embassy in Skopje about the incident and filed an official complaint with the International Basketball Federation (FIBA).

Iraklis announced it will submit an additional complaint to FIBA, accompanied by all available information on the incident, and will request that appropriate measures be taken. The domestic club MZT Skopje has not published an official response to the diplomatic note as of the latest reports.

Photo: MZT Skopje