Nottingham Forest have issued a solemn and compassionate statement expressing their deepest condolences to club owner Evangelos Marinakis and his family following the death of his mother, Irini, in what the club described as a time of profound personal loss.
The Premier League side confirmed the news on social media, joining supporters and the wider football community in paying tribute to the matriarch of the Marinakis family, whose passing has prompted an outpouring of sympathy across England, Greece and beyond.
Club Issues Emotional Statement of Condolence
In an official message released by the club, Nottingham Forest conveyed its collective sorrow and solidarity with its owner and his family. The statement read: “Everyone at Nottingham Forest Football Club extends its deepest condolences to Evangelos Marinakis and his family following the very sad news of the passing of his beloved mother, Irini. Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with Mr Marinakis and his loved ones at this difficult time.”
The message reflected the close bond that has developed between the club’s hierarchy and its ownership since Marinakis’ takeover in 2017. Nottingham Forest’s tribute was widely shared online, resonating strongly with supporters who have grown accustomed to the owner’s visible presence and emotional investment in the club.
Club insiders described the gesture as a mark of respect not only to Marinakis but also to the values of unity and family that the club has sought to project under his stewardship.
Remembering Irini Marinakis and Her Legacy
Irini Marinakis was the wife of Miltiadis Marinakis, a prominent figure within Greek football who held a senior role at Olympiacos during the 1980s. The family’s influence in Greek sporting circles spans decades, with Irini regarded as a central and stabilising presence behind the scenes.
While she largely remained out of the public spotlight, Irini was widely respected within her community and by those close to the family. Friends and associates have described her as a devoted mother and a guiding force whose values helped shape Evangelos Marinakis’ character and leadership style.
Her passing marks a significant personal loss for the Marinakis family, whose name has become synonymous with football ownership at the highest level across multiple European leagues.
Funeral Arrangements in Piraeus
The family has confirmed that Irini Marinakis’ funeral will take place on Wednesday at the Church of Saint Nicholas in Piraeus, near Athens. The location holds deep personal and cultural significance for the family, rooted in their long-standing ties to the port city.
Piraeus is also closely linked to Olympiacos, the Greek giants owned by Evangelos Marinakis, further underscoring the emotional weight of the occasion. Family members, close friends and respected figures from Greek society and football are expected to attend.
The service is set to be a private and dignified farewell, allowing the family to grieve away from the public gaze while receiving support from their extended community.
Fans Unite in Support and Sympathy
Following Nottingham Forest’s statement, supporters took to social media to express their condolences and solidarity with the club’s owner. Messages of support poured in from fans, many of whom highlighted the strong connection Marinakis has built with the Forest faithful.
One supporter wrote: “My sincerest condolences to the Marinakis family for the loss of your matriarch. Mrs Marinakis, you raised a first-class gentleman in Evangelos. May you rest in peace, and may your family find comfort in the treasured memories you created.”
Another added: “Big love to the Marinakis family. The Nottingham Forest family are behind you.” The messages reflected a rare moment of collective empathy in football, transcending results and rivalries.
Marinakis’ Stewardship and Nottingham Forest’s Immediate Future
Evangelos Marinakis, 58, completed his takeover of Nottingham Forest in 2017, ending years of instability and ushering in a new era for the historic club. Under his ownership, Forest returned to the Premier League and have worked to re-establish themselves among England’s elite.
In addition to Nottingham Forest, Marinakis also owns Greek powerhouse Olympiacos and Portuguese side Rio Ave, making him one of European football’s most influential multi-club owners. His hands-on approach and emotional connection to his teams have been widely noted.
Despite the family tragedy, Forest’s season continues, with the club scheduled to travel to Fulham for their next Premier League fixture on Monday, December 22. While attention will inevitably turn back to football matters, the club and its supporters remain united in offering their thoughts and support to their owner during a period of mourning
