FIFA President Gianni Infantino strongly condemned the attack on Turkish referee Halil Umut Meler by Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca, deeming it “totally unacceptable.”
Following the incident during the 1-1 draw between Ankaragucu and Caykur Rizespor, the Turkish football federation suspended all leagues indefinitely.
Infantino emphasized that violence has no place in football, urging authorities to prioritize the safety of officials, players, fans, and staff. Disturbing images captured Koca assaulting Meler on the pitch, leading to Koca and two others being placed in pre-trial detention for “injuring and threatening a public official.”
The incident highlights the need for stringent measures to safeguard the integrity of the sport.
