When a president hits a referee in Turkish D1

Published: December 11, 2023

By: Manu Tournoux

The Super Lig match between Ankaragucu and Rizespor produced a deplorable scene this Monday evening.

Not having tolerated the visitors’ equalizer in added time, the president of the Ankara club violently attacked the referee at the end of the game.

Faruk Koca went down to the pitch to punch Halil Umut Meler, who on the ground also received other blows.

The attacking president criticized the official for a disallowed goal at the start of the match and a red card addressed to a member of his team after the break.

Its Dakika!!! Ankaragücü-Rizespor maçının ardından sahaya giren Ankaragücü Başkanı Faruk Kocanın hakem Halil Umut Meler’e yumruk atma anı ve tekmelemeler. pic.twitter.com/arVDwOgEMj

— Pennywise 🇹🇷 (@Pennywise_1715) December 11, 2023

The consequences should be serious for Ankaragucu and its president. This Monday evening, Turkish Sports Minister Osman Askin Bak denounces “ an aggression that we no longer want to see on our land “.

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Manu Tournoux

Manu Tournoux is a passionate and knowledgeable football enthusiast with a special focus on French football. Born and raised in France, Manu discovered his love for the beautiful game at a young age and developed a deep understanding of the ins and outs of "Le Championnat." His French roots and extensive experience in football journalism have made him an invaluable asset to the French Football Weekly team. As an author for the website, Manu's expertise includes not only in-depth analysis of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches but also insightful profiles of up-and-coming talents, detailed transfer news, and engaging coverage of the French national team. His captivating writing style and undeniable passion for the game have earned him a loyal following among our readers. When he's not crafting engaging articles for French Football Weekly, Manu enjoys attending live matches whenever he can, exploring football culture in various French cities, and engaging in spirited debates with fellow fans. Feel free to follow Manu on Twitter and interact with him as he shares his expert opinions, insights, and love for French football.