Turkish football leagues suspended indefinitely after Ankaragucu president punches referee

Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca punched referee Halil Umut Meler following his side's 1-1 draw with Rizespor in Turkish Super Lig on Monday night; two detained as fans also attack official, while detention order issued for Koca

Monday 11 December 2023 23:55, UK

Matches in all Turkish football leagues have been suspended indefinitely by its football association after a club president punched a referee at the end of a Super Lig match on Monday night.

Faruk Koca, who is president ofAnkaragucu, ran onto the pitch and struck official Halil Umut Melerafter their top-flight game against Rizespor.

Koca's side had conceded a 97th-minute equaliser, ensuring Rizespor would stay four points clear of their hosts after the 1-1 draw.

Ankaragucu fans invaded the pitch after the game and Meler was also kicked when he fell, though it was unclear who his assailants were. Meler eventually made it to the dressing room with the help of the police.

In a statement released several hours after full-time, the Turkish Football Federation said it condemned the «inhumane and despicable» attack on the official.

«We are following Halil Umut Meler's health condition closely and wish a speedy recovery to our valuable referee.

»This inhumane and despicable attack was made against all stakeholders of Turkish Football. Everyone who has targeted referees and encouraged crimes against referees is complicit in this despicable crime.

«The irresponsible statements of club presidents, managers, coaches and TV commentators targeting referees have paved the way for this vile attack today.

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»In coordination with our state, all criminal proceedings