Athens Mayor Haris Doukas announced his intention to rename the indoor basketball arena on Stréfi Hill in honor of the late journalist and radio producer Andreas Mazarakis, following the news of his passing.
A Tribute to a Lifelong Advocate
In a social media post, Doukas expressed deep sorrow over Mazarakis’s death. Beyond his distinguished career in journalism and radio, Mazarakis devoted much of his life to the Asteras Exarcheion sports and cultural club — serving as its president for many years. His work focused on supporting children and young people in the Exarcheia neighborhood, offering them space to play, create, and dream.
Doukas highlighted Mazarakis’s passionate involvement with the legendary Mandolinata ensemble and other cultural initiatives that helped preserve and promote Athens’s musical heritage and local identity.
He extended heartfelt condolences to Mazarakis’s family, friends, and colleagues — and added: “As a modest tribute to his memory and lifelong contribution, I will propose that the Stréfi Indoor Basketball Arena be officially named the ‘Andreas Mazarakis Indoor Arena.’”
Widespread Tributes
Former Athens Mayor Kostas Bakogiannis also paid tribute on Facebook, describing Mazarakis as a man who lived without compromise — with boundless love, authenticity, independence, and generosity. From his early activism at the Metaxourgeio factory and resistance against the military junta, to his decades-long presence on radio, leadership at Asteras Exarcheion, and stewardship of Mandolinata, Bakogiannis recalled him as both a public figure and a cherished friend.
“For many, he was the journalist, the club president, the neighborhood man. For me, he was above all Andreas — a beloved friend who reminded me that life is only worth living fully. Warm condolences to his family. Safe travels, my friend. You will be deeply missed.”