League Matches Postponed Indefinitely – TFF President Büyükekşi Announces
The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has announced that all football matches in the country have been postponed indefinitely following an extraordinary meeting of the Board of Directors. This decision comes in the wake of the shocking attack on referee Halil Umut Meler after the MKE Ankaragücü – Çaykur Rizespor match.
TFF President Mehmet Büyükekşi condemned the attack, describing it as the work of “self-aware murderers.” He emphasized that the attack was not only on Meler, but on all stakeholders of Turkish football. Büyükekşi also called out those who have targeted referees in the past, holding them accountable for their role in this “despicable crime.” The TFF President also extended well wishes for Meler’s recovery and promised severe punishment for the responsible club and its managers.
In a strong statement, Büyükekşi stressed that football matches are not battles and that there should be no loss of life. He urged everyone involved to take responsibility, stating, “Enough is enough.” Büyükekşi emphasized the need to value the lives of referees and to avoid further tarnishing the image of Turkish football on the global stage.
The decision to postpone all football matches indefinitely reflects the gravity of the situation and the TFF’s commitment to addressing the issue of violence in the sport. The TFF’s actions send a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated within Turkish football, and that the safety and well-being of all participants, including referees, is of utmost importance.
