The president of Turkey’s football refereeing organization and six other individuals were taken into custody on Tuesday regarding allegations of tampering with officiating processes, according to Justice Minister Akin Gurlek.
“Claims regarding interference in the formation of referee classifications, assignments, scoring and appointment processes, as well as rule examinations, have been investigated,” Gurlek wrote on social media. Among those arrested were Ferhat Gundogdu, who serves as the body’s president, and his deputy.
Minister Gurlek confirmed that law enforcement officials executed searches at the residences, workplaces, and offices of the suspects. He emphasized the government’s commitment to integrity in sports.
“We will steadfastly continue the fight for clean football so that claims undermining trust in Turkish football are clarified, those responsible are held accountable before the law, and football is remembered for the effort, struggle, and sportsmanship on the field,” Gurlek stated.
This development follows a major scandal from a year ago, when the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) suspended 149 referees for their involvement in an illegal betting ring. An investigation revealed that 371 out of 571 referees in professional leagues maintained betting accounts, with 152 actively placing wagers.
The previous probe led to approximately 29 arrests, including 14 footballers such as Fenerbahce midfielder Mert Hakan Yandas. Authorities also suspended more than 1,000 players, with 25 hailing from the top division.
Gurlek did not indicate any direct connection between the recent arrests and the betting scandal that shook Turkish football last year.
Glad someone is finally holding these officials accountable. Clean football needs integrity, not just promises.
This follows the betting ring from last year, but no direct link mentioned. Are they connected or separate?
Another scandal? Turkish football just can’t catch a break. Hopefully this actually changes something.