A Turkish court has sentenced former Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca to 43 months in prison for punching referee Umut Meler following a Turkish Super Lig match in December 2023. Koca was found guilty of intentionally causing injury, threatening the referee, and violating Turkey’s law on preventing violence in sports.
The incident occurred after a 1-1 draw between Ankaragucu and Rizespor on December 11, 2023. Koca, accompanied by several others, stormed onto the pitch and physically assaulted Meler, resulting in a fractured eye socket for the referee.
Three other individuals involved in the assault were also given prison sentences ranging from one to five years. Koca, who was briefly detained last year and subsequently released on bail, is expected to appeal the verdict.
The assault sparked widespread condemnation, leading to significant repercussions for both Koca and Ankaragucu. The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) imposed a lifetime ban on Koca and levied a $66,000 fine on the club, along with a five-home-game penalty played without spectators. Turkish President Recep Erdogan and FIFA President Gianni Infantino both condemned the violence and called for respect towards referees.
This incident is the latest in a series of controversies that have plagued Turkish football. In recent months, the league has witnessed fan riots, team walkouts, and allegations of corruption.
