The president of a Turkish soccer club has caused a huge scandal after punching a referee in the face following a game on Monday. This shocking incident led to the Turkish Football Federation indefinitely postponing matches across the country.
Faruk Koca, the president of Turkey’s Ankaragucu club, was seen knocking referee Halil Umut Meler to the ground with a punch as chaos erupted inside Ankara’s Eryaman Stadium. Video footage captured the disturbing attack, showing Meler covering his face as fans and officials swarmed the pitch. Meler reportedly suffered a minor fracture as a result of the attack.
In response to the violence, the Turkish Football Federation labeled the attack as “inhumane and despicable,” and announced that matches in all leagues would be halted until further notice. The organization also stated that it would be closely monitoring Meler’s health condition. Additionally, an arrest has been issued in connection to the incident, with at least two individuals being detained according to Turkey’s Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc and Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya.
Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the attack, stating that “sports means peace and brotherhood” and emphasizing that violence has no place in Turkish sports.
The circumstances leading up to the attack remain unclear, but it was revealed that Meler had given a red card to two players, resulting in a 1-1 draw between Ankaragucu and Rizespor.
The president of Ankaragucu club, Faruk Koca, who threw the punch, was also reportedly taken to a hospital following the incident, according to local media. The club expressed sorrow over the actions of its president and issued an apology to the Turkish football public and the entire sports community.
The attack has sparked outrage and raised concerns about violence in sports, with many calling for severe punishment for those involved in the incident. The Turkish Football Federation and authorities have vowed to take action against the responsible individuals and ensure the safety and well-being of the referee.