TFF President Mehmet Büyükekşi: 'All leagues will resume on Tuesday, December 19'

Following the Süper Lig week 15 match played in Ankara between MKE Ankaragücü and Çaykur Rizespor, the match referee Halil Umut Meler was subjected to a physical assault by the home club's president, Faruk Koca, who punched him, and Meler was subsequently kicked by several individuals who entered the pitch after he fell to the ground.

Turkish Football Federation President Mehmet Büyükekşi made statements at a press conference held regarding the matter.

Mehmet Büyükekşi announced that the leagues will resume on Tuesday, December 19.

Speaking about Ankaragücü's situation in the league, Büyükekşi said, "The TFF has its own boards. The TFF Legal Board makes referrals to the disciplinary committee every week after matches are played. The necessary referrals were made yesterday as well. The TFF does not have the authority to make a decision on this matter. The authority lies with the independent PFDK (Professional Football Disciplinary Committee). They will meet tomorrow. The decision will be announced on Thursday."

"NO SITUATION OF HIM QUITTING"

Stating that referee Halil Umut Meler is a referee highly regarded by both UEFA and FIFA, Büyükekşi said, "We expect him to officiate at EURO 2024. There is no situation currently where he is quitting refereeing."

Conveying that they plan to introduce additional sanctions beyond bans and fines to prevent the recurrence of such events, Büyükekşi noted, "In our discussions with our ministries, the TFF will take its place in making the necessary changes to the relevant law."

"HE WAS NOT SUCH A PERSON"

Furthermore, the TFF President made controversial remarks. Büyükekşi said, "Our president Faruk was not such a person. We do not know if he had a health issue."

Finally, Büyükekşi stated that the issue of foreign referees is not currently on their agenda.