Origins: From Gate 21 to Original 21
After the fall of the Greek dictatorship, society encouraged citizens to engage more actively in political and social life. This atmosphere extended to the terraces of football stadiums, where the first organised groups began to form.
AEK’s earliest fan group, Gate 21, was established in 1975, named after the entrance of the historic Nikos Goumas Stadium where the most passionate supporters gathered. Although the group grew quickly, internal disagreements about leadership and direction eventually caused a split.
In 1982, the more active and committed members broke away to create Original 21, led by Dimitris Hatzichristos. They aimed to build a structured, powerful and independent supporters’ movement.
Identity and Symbolism
One of the group’s most iconic symbols—the skull and crossbones flag—first appeared in 1982. It represented defiance, unity and the group’s uncompromising attitude, and soon became a common sight in stadiums across Greece.
Originally based at Gate 21, the group later moved to the “Skepasti” stand opposite the original entrance. The name Original 21 translates the idea of a “Genuine Gate 21”—a continuation of the original spirit, but with a new identity and stronger voice.
Expansion and Global Presence
Following the demolition of the Nikos Goumas Stadium in 2003, Original 21 adopted the stadium’s curved stand (Gates 1–35) as its base of operations. In the decades that followed, sub-groups emerged in Cyprus, London, Sydney, Melbourne and other cities abroad, strengthening their global reach.
Today, the main headquarters of Original 21 remains in the Domatiaki district, near Panathinaikos Stadium.
Role in AEK’s History
During AEK’s financial crisis in 2008, Original 21 took an active role in supporting the club’s survival, aiming to mobilise 10,000 registered members. The departure of long-time leader Hatzichristos in 2013 marked a major turning point for the organisation.
In 2022, with the opening of AEK’s new home, the Agia Sophia Stadium (OPAP Arena) in Nea Filadelfeia, Original 21 returned to Gate 21—restoring a symbolic connection to their earliest days.
Political Identity and International Connections
Original 21 is widely known for its strong left-wing and anti-fascist ideology. Their activism and political identity have shaped long-standing friendships with like-minded supporters’ groups, including Olympique Marseille, Livorno, Partizan Minsk, and St. Pauli, forming what many describe as a “triangle of brotherhood”.
AEK, founded by Greek refugees from Constantinople, has always been seen as a club of the people—representing the displaced, the marginalised and those seeking a sense of community. Original 21 embraces these values, promoting solidarity, inclusivity and social justice.
Solidarity Movements and Controversies
The group has frequently displayed support for various international causes, including Palestine, Kurdistan, and Albania. Banners supporting Palestine, or opposing Israel and its clubs, have appeared on several occasions—sometimes causing controversy. Incidents have included the burning of Israeli flags and clashes with opposing fans.
In 2001, AEK fans refused to observe a minute of silence for the victims of the September 11 attacks, protesting what they viewed as institutional hypocrisy regarding U.S. foreign policy.
In 2019, during a match against Volos, Original 21 displayed banners supporting the people of Kurdistan and Palestine, and even raised a Hezbollah flag, further demonstrating their willingness to express political stances on the terraces.