Turkish President Interrupts Soccer Match in Protest a Week After Club Boss Assaults Referee

The chaotic state of Turkish football was once again brought to the forefront as İstanbulspor president Faik Sarıalioğlu ordered his team off the pitch in protest against a referee’s decision during their match against Trabzonspor. This drastic action comes just a week after all football in Turkey was suspended following an attack on a referee by Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca. The incident has raised serious concerns about the state of football in Turkey and the need for greater respect and discipline within the sport. This article will explore the details of the recent events and the implications for Turkish football.

Turkish football plunged into turmoil once again as İstanbulspor president Faik Sarıalioğlu took his team off the pitch in protest during their match against Trabzonspor. The incident occurred in the 73rd minute with İstanbulspor trailing 2-1. Sarıalioğlu was furious after his team was not awarded a penalty and decided to take action by removing his players from the field. This comes just a week after all football in Turkey was suspended following an attack on a referee by Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca. The referee, Umut Meler, was hospitalized with a fractured eye socket after being punched on the pitch by Koca and kicked by fans. The situation has sparked outrage and calls for action from the football federation. Trabzonspor manager Abdullah Avci expressed his disappointment, calling it a “sad day for football”. The chaos in Turkish football continues to escalate, raising concerns about the safety of referees and players on the pitch.