Football in Turkey:
A controversial referee has been appointed for the Galatasaray vs Fenerbahçe derby, the most important match in the country, which will be played this weekend. The appointed referee is also from the city of Trabzonspor, the third club in the title race. In response, Galatasaray made a social media post criticising the appointment. Fenerbahçe replied by accusing Galatasaray of demanding privileges.
At the same time, the Minister of Sports was attending a groundbreaking ceremony for a basketball court to be built around Galatasaray’s stadium. Although known as a Fenerbahçe supporter, he was criticised for praising Galatasaray, and some Fenerbahçe players unfollowed him on social media. This situation went viral on social media. The same minister is also known as the person who helped Vedat Muriqi, who is currently enjoying a successful season with RCD Mallorca, go to Fenerbahçe by cancelling his Galatasaray transfer through political power.
At that very moment, the president of Fenerbahçe was visiting the Interior Minister.
Although the managements and presidents of football clubs in Turkey are largely shaped by the influence of the ruling political power, supporters of clubs in the title race still claim that their rivals enjoy political privileges. Last year, a major pro-government event was also held at the stadium of Beşiktaş, whose supporters are known for having a more oppositional identity compared to other clubs, and it caused controversy. Despite all this, Turkey is also one of the countries where the cliché “football and politics are separate” is most strongly accepted. (Source: Sopalı Pankart)
🚨 SCANDAL IN THE TURKISH SUPER LEAGUE!
In the Fenerbahce vs Besiktas match a penalty was given for a foul that clearly started outside the box. The rules are clear and there is no explanation for this decision.
This is not just a local issue it is embarrassing for football. Far from UEFA standards and completely unacceptable.
This is no longer a mistake it is a serious blow to the integrity of the game.