On Tuesday, Türkiye took the unprecedented step of suspending all league games after Ankaragücü president Faruk Koca assaulted a referee.
Koca, along with two other suspects, was ordered to be arrested by a Turkish court and is currently in custody over the violent incident, as announced by the justice minister.
The assault occurred late Monday when Koca attacked referee Halil Umut Meler following the conclusion of a Super Lig match against Çaykur Rizespor, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
In the aftermath of Rizespor’s last-minute equalizer, chaos ensued as fans invaded the pitch. During the melee, Meler was knocked to the ground by Koca and subsequently kicked.
In response to the disturbing incident, the Turkish Football Federation convened an emergency meeting to address the violence.
Mehmet Büyükşehir, the federation chief, expressed deep dismay, describing the attack as “unfortunate and shameful in the name of football.” He emphasized the urgent need for those responsible to face consequences for their actions.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan also condemned the assault, asserting that sports should embody peace and brotherhood. He unequivocally stated, “Sports is incompatible with violence. We will never allow violence to mar Turkish sports.”
Meler sustained serious injuries, including a fracture near his eye, and was hospitalized for treatment.
