Second wave coming in betting scandal: It's their turn!

The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has referred 152 referees, including 7 top-tier referees, to the Professional Football Disciplinary Board (PFDK) as part of the betting scandal. Federation President İbrahim Hacıosmanoğlu had announced that out of 571 referees officiating in professional leagues, 371 had betting accounts, and 152 were found to be actively betting.

It was reported that the 152 referees found to have been betting will have their statements taken. It was learned that the most notable name among these is Zorbay Küçük.

SECOND WAVE ON THE WAY

The second wave of the scandal is expected to be announced next week. According to a report by the Sabah newspaper, it was stated that the new list will include not only referees but also players, club executives, and some club staff.

It is stated that 3,700 players have been examined in the investigation file so far, and this number may increase.

It was reported that a comprehensive investigation is being conducted by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, going back at least five years. It was announced that the file opened in Antalya following complaints against the Central Referee Board (MHK) has been merged with the main file in Istanbul.

In the investigation, analyses are being conducted using MASAK and HTS reports, as well as user data obtained from domestic and international betting sites. Furthermore, it was learned that there are secret witnesses and individuals who want to become "confessors" in the file.

ASSETS UNDER SCRUTINY

The assets of the referees are also being examined as part of the investigation. If an unexplained increase in assets is detected, this will be considered "suspicious." Similarly, unexplained increases in the assets of close family members, rather than the referee themselves, will also be included in the file.

The TFF is expected to transmit all data obtained in its own administrative investigation to the prosecutor's office. It is stated that there may be summons for statements or detentions in light of the new information obtained.

HOW WILL THE PENALTY PROCESS WORK?

According to the TFF Disciplinary Instructions, it is forbidden for referees, players, and coaches to engage in betting. Under Article 57 of the instructions, those who violate this prohibition can receive a ban from competitions ranging from three months to one year.

However, if it is determined that betting activities have influenced match results, Article 56 comes into play, and a lifetime ban can be imposed.

Article 27 of the FIFA Code of Ethics also prohibits referees from participating in betting activities. In this context, individuals who violate the rule can be fined at least 100,000 Swiss francs and banned from football for up to three years.