Turkey defender Merih Demiral has been handed a two-match ban for making an ultra-nationalist salute during his country’s Euro 2024 victory against Austria. The 26-year-old scored both of Turkey’s goals in a 2-1 win, securing a quarter-final spot against the Netherlands. Demiral celebrated his second goal with a ‘wolf salute’, which is associated with the far-right extremist group Grey Wolves and is linked to Turkey’s ruling coalition party, the National Movement Party.
The gesture made by Demiral is banned in both Austria and France, and he admitted that it was pre-planned in case he scored during the last-16 tie. As a result, UEFA charged him with failing to comply with general principles of conduct, violating the basic rules of decent conduct, using sports events for non-sporting manifestations, and bringing the sport of football into disrepute.
In contrast, England’s Jude Bellingham has escaped punishment for a crotch-grabbing gesture he made while celebrating a goal in the last-16 win over Slovakia. The 21-year-old midfielder has been given a one-match ban, suspended for a year, and fined £25,400 (30,000 Euros). The difference in punishment has led to criticism and accusations of unfairness.
Osman Askın Bak, Turkey’s minister of youth and sports, expressed his disagreement with UEFA’s decision regarding Demiral’s ban. He stated that the decision was unfair, biased, and lacked a legal basis, suggesting that it was politically motivated. Bak added that Turkey would seek legal means to challenge the double standard applied to their country and national football player.
This incident raises questions about the consistency of disciplinary actions in football. While it is essential to maintain standards of conduct and prevent the sport from being used for non-sporting purposes, there must also be fair and equal treatment for all players regardless of their nationality or political associations.
In recent years, there has been increasing attention on the behavior of players both on and off the pitch. UEFA and other football governing bodies have implemented stricter regulations to address issues such as racism, discrimination, and political gestures. However, the enforcement of these rules must be seen as consistent and impartial to maintain the credibility of the sport.
It is worth noting that this incident occurred during the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament, a highly anticipated event that brings together teams from across Europe. The focus should be on the skill and sportsmanship displayed by the players rather than controversial gestures that overshadow the game itself.
As football continues to evolve, it is crucial for governing bodies to review and refine their disciplinary policies to ensure fair treatment and avoid any perception of bias. The sport has the power to unite people from different backgrounds and cultures, and it is essential to preserve its integrity by promoting inclusivity and respect both on and off the pitch.