Turkey: referee attacked by club president and players, all national football competitions suspended

All national football competitions in Turkey have been suspended until further notice, announced the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) on 11/12/2023. This decision comes after the president and players of MKE Ankaragücü assaulted a referee at the end of their Süper Lig match against Rizespor on the same day.

At the end of extra time and after Çaykur Rizespor scored the equaliser (1-1) in the 97^th minute, Faruk Koca, president of MKE Ankaragücü, came down onto the pitch and punched Halil Umut Meler, the game's referee, in the face. Meler fell to the ground and was kicked several times, including by MKE Ankaragücü players, before being taken to a hospital in Ankara.

"We strongly condemn the inhumane and despicable attack on Halil Umut Meler. We are keeping a close eye on his condition and wish him a speedy recovery. This attack was not only aimed at the referee, but was committed against all stakeholders in Turkish football. All those who have targeted referees and encouraged violence against officials to this day are complicit. The irresponsible statements made by club presidents…