The Turkish football league witnessed some ugly scenes last weekend as fans of Trabzonspor attacked Fenerbahce’s players who were celebrating their 3-2 away win.
Fans invaded the pitch at the blast of the referee’s whistle bringing the game to an end, Fenerbahce players were forced to defend themselves as the fans threw objects, kicked and punched at the players, including Super Eagles midfielder Bright Osayi-Samuel and former Chelsea striker Mitcy Batsuayi who had to punch their way out of the fiasco. The police finally restored some order at the Senol Gunes Stadium.
Speaking on the incident FIFA president Gianni Infantino said what happened has no place in football and has called for those responsible to be held accountable.
“The violence witnessed after the Turkish Super Lig match between Trabzonspor and Fenerbahce is absolutely unacceptable – on or off the field, it has no place in our society,” Infantino posted on his X page.
“All players have to be safe and secure to play the game which brings such joy to so many people all over the world.
“I call on the relevant authorities to ensure that this is respected at all levels and for the perpetrators of the shocking events in Trabzon to be held accountable for their actions.”
Turkey’s interior minister, Ali Yerlikaya, said an investigation had been launched, adding football violence was “not acceptable” – while the Turkish Football Federation promised those responsible would be punished.
