The moment the final whistle blew in the derby against Olympiacos, an incredible drone show lit up the sky above the “Agia Sophia-Allwyn Arena” to celebrate the 14th championship in AEK’s history. Illuminating the night sky, the drones formed “Champions 2026,” the AEK crest, the stadium itself, the iconic “Double-Headed Eagle,” and the league trophy—a spectacle visible across Nea Filadelfeia and beyond.
Meanwhile on the pitch, AEK staff worked feverishly to set the stage for the trophy presentation. DJs spun tracks, a dazzling light show commenced, and thousands of yellow flags and neon wristbands were distributed to the crowd. On the stadium’s big screens, a tribute video honored the teams behind the club’s previous 13 league titles.
Next came a video message from club owner Marios Iliopoulos, highlighting the AEK History Museum and summarizing a spectacular multi-competition season.
The focus then shifted back to the grass as children from the club’s academies sang “Ena to Chelidoni” (A Solitary Swallow), written by Nobel laureate Odysseas Elytis and composed by Mikis Theodorakis, followed by the duo’s evocative “Tis Dikaiosynis Ilie Noite” (Sun of Justice). For the grand finale, the entire stadium joined in a roaring rendition of the AEK anthem.
AEK: Champions 2026
Following a poignant tribute to the supporters who have passed away in recent years, cameras cut to the locker room, capturing the players and coaching staff preparing for their grand entrance. Everyone donned “Champions 2026” t-shirts, which listed every contributor to this year’s title on the back. On the pitch, twelve violins and two cellos set the mood, first playing Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” before transitioning into the iconic anti-fascist anthem “Bella Ciao.”
Owner Marios Iliopoulos then made his entrance, celebrating his first championship since acquiring the majority stake from Dimitris Melissanidis on June 22, 2024. In an emotional 20-minute speech, the AEK leader spoke about the historic hardships the club has overcome and the daily struggles of the Greek people. He promised even greater triumphs ahead.
Super League Deputy President Katia Koxenoglou brought out the trophy on behalf of the league, accompanied by AEK CEO Minas Lysandrou. One by one, from the kit men and coaching staff to the players, the team emerged from the tunnel to deafening cheers.
Last out were the captains: Harold Moukoudi, Domagoj Vida, and Petros Mantalos—the latter securing his place in folklore having also lifted the trophy in 2018 and 2023. Then, following a brief, cinematic stunt reminiscent of Mission: Impossible, the trophy suddenly appeared in the passenger seat of “Super Mario” Iliopoulos’s actual racing car. He handed it over to the three captains, who hoisted it into the Nea Filadelfeia sky amidst absolute pandemonium.
It was the ultimate green light for a historic party, uniting everyone in the “yellow-and-black” family inside the stadium, on the streets of Nea Filadelfeia, and across every corner of the globe where AEK fans reside.
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