The Turkish football championship was temporarily suspended due to an attack on a referee, triggering an episode of violence associated with the country’s most popular sport.
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The suspension came after Ankaragücü club president Faruk Koca was arrested for attacking referee Halil Umut Meler, in an incident recorded live on television. Koca invaded the field after the final whistle of the game between Ankaragücü and Rizespor, where, according to broadcast images, he punched Meler in the face, who tried to protect himself from the ground, but was kicked by at least two other men, allegedly members of the local club.
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In the outcome of the match, in which Rizespor tied (1-1) in stoppage time at their opponent’s home, the goal of which was disallowed, Meler suffered injuries, including a head injury and injuries to his left eye.
The president of Ankaragücü, this Tuesday (12), issued a statement apologizing to the referee, his family, the community of Turkish referees, the fans and the nation. Furthermore, he announced his resignation as president of the club. The chief doctor at Ankara’s Acibadem hospital reported that Meler’s vital prognosis was not compromised, although he suffered bleeding around his left eye and a small cut.