British colonial authorities attempted to bring Arsenal Football Club to Cyprus in 1938 as a propaganda tool to counter Greek influence, according to new research by Neapolis University lecturer Kyriakos Iakovides.
The revelation comes from a period when Panathinaikos’ visit to Cyprus, at APOEL’s invitation, sparked unprecedented enthusiasm among Greek Cypriots, with packed stadiums and special train services arranged for fans.
Colonial Governor Palmer, concerned by the Greek team’s reception and its implications for the British administration, requested Arsenal’s visit to Cyprus.
However, the plan was rejected by London, based on incorrect information about the club’s Mediterranean tour plans.
“Even if Arsenal had visited, success would have been doubtful as English football held little appeal for Greek Cypriot fans at the time”, said Iakovides, noting that Arsenal eventually made their first Cyprus appearance in 1967, hosted by APOEL.
Sports were entangled with colonial politics and national identity in Cyprus, decades before English football achieved its current global popularity.
