In an unprecedented turn of events, the president of top-tier Turkish football club Ankaragucu, Faruk Koca, found himself in handcuffs after assaulting referee Halil Umut Meler in a shocking post-match debacle on Monday evening.
The distressing incident unfolded during Ankaragucu’s home match against Rizespor in the Super Lig, concluding in a 1-1 draw. However, the match’s climax wasn’t on the field but rather in the reprehensible actions that followed.
Reports revealed that Koca physically attacked referee Meler, threatening not only him but also his colleagues, leading to a swift arrest by Turkish authorities.
The referee recounted the harrowing experience, stating, “Faruk Koca punched me under my left eye; I fell to the ground.
While I was on the ground, other people kicked me in the face and other parts of my body many times. Koca said to me and my colleagues, ‘I will finish you,’ addressing me, he said, ‘I will kill you.'”
In a statement to the court, Koca attempted to explain his actions, attributing them to his intention to react verbally to the referee and spit in his face, indicating a confrontation that escalated beyond words.
The repercussions of this incident were swift and severe. The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) took the extraordinary step of suspending all leagues following what they termed a “shameful” episode in Ankara.
Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc confirmed the formal arrest of Koca and two others for “injuring a public official,” shedding light on the gravity of the situation.
Disturbing footage showed the aftermath, with Meler lying in a hospital bed, his face swollen and neck supported by a brace. However, doctors assured that while injuries were significant, there would be no lasting damage.
Beyond the immediate legal consequences, FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his condemnation, stating, “The events after the match were totally unacceptable and have no place in our sport or society.”
This unprecedented assault on a referee, a rare occurrence in Turkish football, has sparked outrage and calls for stringent actions against those involved.
Ankaragucu and its chairman, along with all culprits responsible for attacking the referee, are expected to face severe penalties from the football federation.
The incident has cast a dark cloud over Turkish football, reminding fans worldwide of the importance of respect and sportsmanship on and off the field.
As the investigation continues, the future of Super Lig matches remains uncertain, leaving the football community in a state of shock and disbelief at this reprehensible turn of events.
