Turkish club supports former president following prison sentence for attacking a referee

The Turkish football club Ankaragucu has expressed its discontent regarding the sentencing of their former president, Faruk Koca, to over three years in prison for assaulting a referee last year. They argue that the verdict was swayed by “misleading public perception.”

After the Ankara court’s ruling on Monday, Ankaragucu Chairman Ismail Mert Firat expressed that it was “impossible to interpret the sentence with good intentions”. He claimed there was “no disgraceful crime” and charged the court with yielding to prejudiced public sentiment.

On Monday, Koca received a sentence of three years and seven months in prison for “intentionally wounding a public official” after he punched referee Halil Umut Meler in the face following a 1-1 draw with Rizespor in December 2023, resulting in a fractured eye socket.

Koca received a suspended sentence of less than a year for making threats and breaching laws concerning violence in sports.

Three additional defendants connected to the attack were given suspended sentences that varied from 15 months to five years. All four are anticipated to challenge the court’s decision. Koca will remain free until the higher court makes a decision on the appeal.

Ankaragucu expressed their unwavering support for Koca, highlighting his significant contributions to Turkish soccer throughout his three-year presidency and referring to him as a “legend”.

The club expressed disapproval of the legal decision, stating that following the incident, Koca had demonstrated responsibility by resigning from his position and confronting the legal and social repercussions with a sense of maturity.