Referee Punched in Turkish Super Lig Speaks Out: Battered but Unbowed
Turkish football referee Halil Umut Meler has broken his silence after a shocking attack on the pitch left him hospitalized and the nation in outrage.
From Hospital to Headlines:
Meler, 37, spent three days recovering from a punch to the head by MKE Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca during a chaotic match.
Now, sporting a battered face and a neck brace, he assures reporters: “There is no problem with my health.”
A Night of Shame:
The incident, dubbed “the darkest night” by Turkish media, saw Koca storm the field and assault Meler after Ankaragucu’s 1-1 draw with Caykur Rizespor.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the violence, while FIFA president Gianni Infantino called it “totally unacceptable.”
Will He Return?
Fans took to the streets protesting the league’s decision to resume play on December 19th.
Meanwhile, Meler remains coy about his future.
He confirms contact with UEFA but says, “Everything is possible. I just want to rest.”
Koca’s Defense:
Koca, who resigned after the incident, initially claimed he only intended to “spit” at the referee.
He now maintains Meler “threw himself to the ground.”
A Call for Change:
The Turkish Football Federation vows action.
“Enough is enough,” says chief Mehmet Buyukeksi.
He blames irresponsible comments from club officials for inciting violence.
Meler’s Words:
In a statement, Meler describes the attack: “Koca punched me under my eye.
While I was on the ground, they kicked my face and body many times.
He threatened to finish me and kill me.”
A Nation Reels:
The attack has shaken Turkish football to its core.
Meler’s recovery and the league’s response will be closely watched as the nation grapples with the fallout from this dark chapter.
