Matches in all Turkish football leagues have been suspended indefinitely by its football association after a club president punched a referee at the end of a Super Lig match on 11 December.
Faruk Koca, president of Ankaragucu, ran onto the pitch and struck official Halil Umut Meler after their top-flight game against Rizespor and the attack even elicited a response from Turkish President Recep Erdogan, who said, “I condemn the attack on referee Halil Umut Meler after the MKE Ankaragucu-Çaykur Rizespor match played this evening, and I wish him a speedy recovery.”
“Sports means peace and brotherhood. Sports are incompatible with violence.
“We will never allow violence to take place in Turkish sports.”
The assailant Koca’s side had conceded a 97th-minute equaliser, ensuring Rizespor would stay four points clear of their hosts after the 1-1 draw.
Punch aside, Ankaragucu fans later invaded the pitch after the game and Meler was also kicked when he fell.
In a statement released several hours after full-time, the Turkish Football Federation said it condemned the “inhumane and despicable” attack on the official.
“We are following Halil Umut Meler’s health condition closely and wish a speedy recovery to our valuable referee.
“This inhumane and despicable attack was made against all stakeholders of Turkish Football. Everyone who has targeted referees and encouraged crimes against referees is complicit in this despicable crime.
“The irresponsible statements of club presidents, managers, coaches and TV commentators targeting referees have paved the way for this vile attack today.
“In coordination with our state, all criminal proceedings deserved have been initiated against those responsible and instigators of this inhumane attack.
“The responsible club, the club president, its managers and all the criminals who attacked Halil Umut Meler will be punished in the most severe way.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino also condemned the attacks, and said, “There is absolutely no place for violence in football, on or off the field.
“Events following the Turkish Super Lig match between MKE Ankaragucu and Çaykur Rizespor are totally unacceptable and have no place in our sport or society.
“Without match officials there is no football.
“Referees, players, fans and staff have to be safe and secure to enjoy the game, and I call on the relevant authorities to ensure that this is strictly implemented and respected at all levels.”
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