Soccer fans across the globe have taken to social media to share their disapproval of violence aimed at Turkish referee Halil Umut Meler. The official took a punch to the face from the president of Ankaragucu after the team’s 1-1 draw with Rizespor on Monday night in the Turkish Super Lig.
The violence occurred after Ankaragucu conceded a 97th-minute equalizer. A video of the incident has been shared widely on social media, showing the ref taking a punch from Faruk Koca before dropping to the ground. Another unnamed assailant, supposedly a fan, then kicks him in the head while he lay on the floor:
The Turkish soccer leagues have now suspended all matches indefinitely while its football association investigates the issue. A Turkish court ordered the arrest of Koca on Tuesday for “injuring a public official.” Two fans have also been remanded in custody over the violence.
inhumane and despicable” attack
The Turkish Football Federation has condemned the “inhumane and despicable” attack. Meanwhile, fans have taken to X to share similar sentiments. For instance, one called @scottyland1888 deemed the assailants “f*cking cowards,” while @SIDRV deemed it a “cheap shot,” particularly the kick to the head.
Meanwhile, the MKE Ankaragucu X page has released a statement apologizing “to the Turkish football public and the entire sports community for the sad incident.”