Club President Assaults Referee in Turkish Top-Flight Match
The referee in a Turkish top-flight match was punched to the ground by a club president in an incident that has sparked outrage and condemnation. Faruk Koca, president of Super Lig side MKE Ankaragucu, stormed onto the field and physically assaulted referee Halil Umut Meler following a draw against Caykur Rizespor.
President Erdogan and Minister Bak Condemn the Attack
Turkish President Recep Erdogan expressed his strong disapproval of the attack, stating, “I condemn the assault on referee Halil Umut Meler after the MKE Ankaragucu-Caykur Rizespor match played this evening, and I wish him a speedy recovery. Sports represents peace and brotherhood, and violence has no place in sports. We will never tolerate violence in Turkish sports.”
Osman Askin Bak, Turkey’s Minister of Youth and Sport, also condemned the incident, saying, “I strongly condemn the attack on the referee during the match. Such behavior is not in line with the spirit of sports and Turkish football.”
Clubs Express Regret and Support for the Referee
MKE Ankaragucu expressed their deep regret over the incident, apologizing to the Turkish football public and the entire sports community for the unfortunate event that occurred after the Caykur Rizespor match at Eryaman Stadium.
Caykur Rizespor showed their solidarity with referee Halil Umut Meler, sending their well wishes to him and the entire referee community. They stated, “We convey our wishes to the entire referee community, especially the referee of the match, Halil Umut Meler, to get well soon.”
Galatasaray, a Turkish club competing in the Champions League, called for reflection and self-evaluation among all stakeholders of Turkish football in light of this incident.
Referee Meler’s Profile and Standings
Halil Umut Meler, aged 37, is one of Turkey’s top referees and has officiated international matches for FIFA. He holds a position on UEFA’s elite referee list and recently oversaw Lazio’s Champions League group game against Celtic on November 28.
Current Standings and Points
MKE Ankaragucu currently occupies the 11th position in the Super Lig table with 18 points, trailing three places behind Caykur Rizespor, who sit on 22 points after 15 matches.
(Image: Emin Sansar/Anadolu via Getty Images)