Turkish Super Lig: Ankaragucu President receives Lifetime ban for assaulting referee

Ankara, Turkey – Faruc Koca, the president of Ankaragucu, has been handed a lifetime suspension by the Turkish Football Federation following his assault on referee Halil Umut Meler during a Super Lig match.

This unequivocal decision also entails a substantial fine of two million pounds (approximately 50,000 euros) for the top-tier club.

The Federation has taken stern measures against both Koca and Ankaragucu, additionally stipulating that the club must play five home matches without the presence of its supporters, following disturbances involving fans and club officials.

The Turkish Football Federation has suspended all matches across Turkish leagues since the incident on Monday night, with play set to resume on December 19.

Faruc Koca, currently in custody after being arrested on Tuesday for violently striking the referee at the end of the match against Rizespor, faces further legal consequences.

The Turkish court has ordered his arrest, along with two other suspects, according to Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc.

This incident underscores the severity of assaults on officials in sports and highlights the authorities’ commitment to maintaining integrity and discipline in Turkish football.