FIFA President Gianni Infantino called the president of Turkish top-flight team Ankaragucu’s attack on a Turkish football referee “totally unacceptable” on Tuesday.
during Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca attacked referee Halil Umut Meler during Monday’s 1-1 draw with Caykur Rizespor, the Turkish Football Federation suspended all leagues indefinitely.
“There is absolutely no place for violence in football, either on or off the pitch,” Infantino said in a social media statement.
“Events following the Turkish Super Lig match between MKE Ankaragucu and Caykur Rizespor are totally unacceptable and have no place in our sport or society.”
“Without match officials, there is no football,” Infantino concluded.
“Referees, players, fans and staff have to be safe and secure to enjoy the game, and I call on the relevant authorities to ensure that this is strictly implemented and respected at all levels.”
Images from the incident on Monday night showed Koca rushing onto the pitch with a group of men and punching Meler after he blew the final whistle.
Koca and two others have been held in pre-trial detention by a judge for “injuring and threatening a public official.”