UEFA Suspends Turkish Player Merih Demiral for Controversial Celebration

UEFA has announced a two-game suspension for Turkish player Merih Demiral following a controversial celebration during Euro 2024 that sparked a diplomatic row. Demiral’s crucial brace helped Turkey advance to the quarter-finals after defeating Austria on July 2nd.

While celebrating his second goal, Demiral mimicked a sign associated with the Turkish ultra-nationalist organization Ulku Ocaklari, also known as the Gray Wolves. The group has a history of involvement in politically motivated violence, particularly against leftist groups. It is banned in France and under close scrutiny in Germany.

Turkish Leaders Defend Demiral

Demiral defended his gesture as an expression of national pride. Turkish authorities, including President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, supported him, stating that he was merely expressing his excitement. Turkey’s Foreign Ministry criticized UEFA’s decision, suggesting bias against foreigners in Europe.

Omer Celik, a spokesman for Erdoğan’s party, criticized UEFA’s ban as unjust and influenced by pressure groups. President Erdoğan canceled a trip to Azerbaijan to attend Turkey’s game against the Netherlands in Berlin.

As a result of the suspension, Demiral will miss upcoming matches, including a potential semi-final.

UEFA’s Firm Stance on Political Gestures

UEFA reiterated its strict stance against political gestures on the field. Another player, Albania’s Mirlind Daku, received a similar two-game ban for chanting anti-Macedonian and anti-Serbian slogans during Euro 2024.

The decision regarding Demiral came after German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser strongly condemned his gesture, stating that symbols of Turkish right-wing extremists have no place in stadiums. Germany and Turkey engaged in diplomatic actions following the incident.