Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho has been handed a four-match ban and a fine of over $70,000 AUD after making controversial comments following a heated Istanbul derby on Tuesday.
Mourinho was accused of making “racist” remarks by rival team Galatasaray. Fenerbahce defended the manager, saying his comments were taken “completely out of context,” but the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) confirmed that a penalty was necessary.
The sanctions will see Mourinho banned from the dressing rooms and dugout for Fenerbahce’s next two games. He will also serve an additional two-match ban for “an act against sportsmanship” related to his post-match press conference.
A statement from the TFF explained that Mourinho’s comments were “contrary to the ethics of sports,” contained language that could encourage violence and disorder, and were divisive in society. The statement added that they could also provoke fan incidents.
Fenerbahce has confirmed that they will appeal the penalties given to Mourinho.
Tensions were high both on and off the field during the derby, with players refusing to shake hands and concerns over spectator behaviour after the 0-0 draw. Mourinho’s alleged racial comment overshadowed his team’s efforts.
Due to the intense nature of the match, both teams requested a non-Turkish referee, which is unusual. The Super Lig agreed, appointing Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic. Mourinho praised Vincic’s performance after the match, saying it was a top performance and suggesting that had a Turkish referee been in charge, the result might have been different.
However, Mourinho was less complimentary of his opponent, accusing the Galatasaray bench of trying to get Fenerbahce defender Yusuf Akcicek booked. He criticised the Galatasaray bench for their actions early in the match, calling them “monkeys.”
These comments led to a strong response from Galatasaray, who threatened to sue Mourinho, accusing him of making “derogatory statements towards the Turkish people.” They also announced their intention to take legal action and file official complaints with UEFA and FIFA.
Meanwhile, the match was briefly halted in the 52nd minute when Fenerbahce fans launched flares towards home supporters. Police were on hand to manage the crowd, and play resumed shortly after the incident.
