Ankaragucu Club President Resigns After Assault on Referee

Faruk Koca, the president of MKE Ankaragucu, has resigned from his position following an incident during the Turkish Super Lig match against Rizespor.

Koca’s resignation comes after he physically assaulted referee Halil Umut Meler, resulting in facial fractures for the match official.

The incident occurred after Ankaragucu conceded a late goal in the seventh minute of extra time, leading to a loss of two crucial points. Fans invaded the pitch in response to the goal, creating chaos during which Koca assaulted referee Meler.

Initially denying causing serious harm, Koca later issued an apology to the match official and decided to resign from his role as club president. In a statement, Koca expressed his desire to prevent further harm to the club, its fans, the community, and his family.

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“I hope that this incident… will be a reason for our sports life, especially our football community, to be purified from mistakes, shortcomings, and the culture of violence,” Koca stated.

Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Koca called for a more realistic discussion about the structural problems in Turkish football.

“I would like to take this opportunity to apologize again to everyone I have upset, especially Ankaragucu fans. I would like it to be known that I am deeply saddened that both the club I manage, the football community, and our country are remembered with such an event and image,” he added.

Referee Meler, who suffered injuries requiring hospital treatment, received an apology from Koca. The former club president also expressed regret to his family, the Turkish refereeing community, and the nation for his moment of weakness.

The resignation marks an attempt to address the fallout from the incident and emphasize the need for change within Turkish football.

Meanwhile, the Turkish Super Lig is currently suspended following the incident on Monday, December 11, 2023.