Turkish Football Leagues in Chaos as Referee Assaults Spark Indefinite Suspension
The Turkish Football Federation has indefinitely suspended all league matches following a violent attack on referee Halil Umut Meler during a Süper Lig match between Ankaragücü and Rizespor. The president of Ankaragücü punched Meler in the face, and he was subsequently kicked while on the ground. Meler suffered a small fracture and bleeding around his left eye. The federation condemned the attack, initiated criminal proceedings, and vowed to punish those responsible. FIFA President Gianni Infantino also condemned the incident. The club whose president attacked Meler apologized, and Rizespor sent well wishes to the referee. Galatasaray called for a review of the growing issue of violence in Turkish football.