Aris Limassol FC: A foundational part of Limassol's football legacy
Located in the vibrant city of Limassol, Aris Limassol Football Club (Greek: Άρης Λεμεσού) stands as a testament to Cypriot football history.
As one of the founding members of the Cyprus Football Association, Aris has a rich tradition dating back to 1930 and boasts a distinctive green, black, and white color scheme that echoes its enduring presence in the Limassol sporting scene.
Aris Limassol's impact goes beyond the football pitch, as the club actively participates in various other sports, including basketball, table tennis, and chess. Notably, the Aris chess team once dominated Cypriot chess during the vibrant 1980s.
One of the pioneers of Cypriot football, Aris participated in the inaugural five seasons of the Cypriot First Division, consistently competing with tenacity. Although their league placement varied from 5th to 7th during this period, Aris temporarily ceased operations in 1939 due to financial constraints.
Aris Limassol's indomitable spirit led to their resurgence in 1952 when they returned to competitive football in the Second Division. They faced a series of promotions and relegations, eventually making a mark in the First Division in 1958, where they clinched a notable 4th place finish.
Throughout the 1960s, Aris faced the challenge of being one of the lower-ranked teams in the First Division. Their journey saw them relegated in the 1969–70 season, only to bounce back and experience moments of glory in the following years, including a 4th place finish in the 1976–77 and 1978–79 seasons.
Aris Limassol's quest for greatness took them to the final of the Cypriot Cup in 1989, where they narrowly lost to AEL Limassol. The subsequent season saw the club make a high-profile signing in Oleh Blokhin, the 1975 European Footballer of the Year, marking a significant chapter in Aris' history.
In 1993, following a period of relegation, Aris showcased their resilience by clinching the Second Division title for the third time. Subsequently, they alternated between the First and Second Divisions until the 2006–07 season, where they managed to maintain their First Division status.
Summer 2021 ushered in a new era for Aris, thanks to the vision of Russian investor Vladimir Fedorov. Under his leadership, Aris embarked on a mission to elevate the club into the ranks of Cyprus' elite football clubs. Their efforts bore fruit, as the club secured a fourth-place finish in the league, earning them a historic spot in the 2022–23 UEFA Europa Conference League.
Aris' crowning achievement came in the 2022–23 season, as they clinched their first-ever Cypriot First Division title. This historic triumph catapulted them into the 2023–24 Champions League qualifying rounds, marking a milestone in the club's history.
While Aris may have a smaller fan base compared to other Limassol clubs, their supporters are unwavering in their commitment to the team. Their passion and dedication shine through in every match.
Beyond the football field, Aris has made its mark in the world of music. The Aris choir, established in 1938, remains a prominent Hellenic choir, performing not only in Cyprus but also in Greece and internationally, showcasing the diverse talents that form a part of Aris Limassol's legacy.