A doping case involving Pirro Dhima’s family circle has brought immediate consequences at the institutional level as well. The former Olympic champion submitted his resignation from the role of adviser to the Greek sports minister, but according to the version published by Greek media, his request was not accepted.
The resignation came after his brother’s arrest
According to reports in Greece, Pirro Dhima submitted his resignation just a few hours after the name of his brother, Odiseas Dhima, emerged in an investigation into banned substances.
His decision has been interpreted by Greek media as a move made out of sensitivity, following the arrest of the 58-year-old, who is accused of supplying athletes with steroids and other substances to boost physical performance.
The minister did not accept his departure
Despite the request to step down, Greek Sports Minister Yiannis Vroutsis did not accept Pirro Dhima’s resignation.
According to information published by Protothema.gr, the minister maintained that the former weightlifter cannot be held responsible for the actions of a family member. This is the version circulating so far in the Greek media, while there has been no public reaction from Dhima himself.
Dhima’s role in Greek sport remains unchanged
At present, Pirro Dhima also continues to hold the post of special secretary at the Greek Weightlifting Federation.
He remains one of the best-known figures in the sport in Greece, with three gold medals and one bronze medal at the Olympic Games, making the case even more sensitive in Greek sporting opinion.
What is known about the arrest of Odiseas Dhima
Odiseas Dhima, 58, was arrested on the morning of Thursday, November 12, in an area of Attica, on suspicion of violating anti-doping legislation.
According to Greek authorities, the arrest followed a months-long investigation carried out in cooperation with the Hellenic Anti-Doping Organization and the National Organization for Medicines.
He faces charges that have been processed as a serious criminal offense and a misdemeanor, while the case file has been passed to the investigator for further legal procedures.
So far, Pirro Dhima has not made any public statement on the matter.
The case has opened a new discussion in Greece about the line between personal responsibility and the public cost brought by a scandal, especially when it affects figures with an institutional role.