'I have been in America for 4 months' he had said: Ali Palabıyık's role at the Diyanet, following his referral to the PFDK in a betting investigation, becomes a topic of discussion

As part of a betting investigation conducted by the Turkish Football Federation (TFF), former referee Ali Palabıyık has been referred to the Professional Football Disciplinary Board (PFDK) over allegations of placing bets.

HE OFFICIATED HIS LAST MATCH IN THE 2022-2023 SEASON

Palabıyık, one of the former Süper Lig referees who also held a FIFA badge, officiated the final match of his refereeing career during the 2022-2023 season. Following the investigation process against him, information emerged that Palabıyık was abroad and had taken on a new role.

HE WORKS AT THE DİYANET CENTER IN THE USA

According to a report by Sözcü, Ali Palabıyık is working at the Diyanet Center of America (DCA), located in the U.S. state of Maryland and realized with an investment of 110 million dollars.

ACTIVE ROLE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF THE SPORTS COMPLEX

It is stated that Palabıyık is working as a manager at the sports facilities operating under the name "DCA Active Sports Complex." The center, which operates on a paid membership system, includes a Turkish bath, an indoor swimming pool, a sauna, and a fitness center. The sports complex, which also houses basketball, volleyball, and football schools, attracts significant interest not only from Muslims but also from Americans of different faiths living in the region.

"I HAVE NEVER PLACED A BET IN ANY PERIOD OF MY LIFE"

Following his referral to the PFDK, Ali Palabıyık made a statement regarding the allegations and denied the accusations that he had placed bets. Palabıyık used the following expressions:

"I have been in America for about 4 months. I learned about the news from messages sent by my friends. I will return to Turkey at the first opportunity. Throw mud and let it stick. I have never placed a bet in any period of my life. I have never been a member of any betting site. I have never given information about any match to any acquaintance."

HE POINTED TO THE MHK PRESIDENT BEHIND THE REFERRAL

Ali Palabıyık claimed that Central Referee Board (MHK) President Ferhat Gündoğdu was behind the process of his referral to the PFDK and expressed the following words:

"Ferhat Gündoğdu is still at the head of the operation. He was not successful the first time. By coming for the second time, he unfairly removed many of my referee colleagues from their duties and he is still continuing to do so."

A GIANT 110 MILLION DOLLAR COMPLEX

The Diyanet Center of America, built on 17 acres of land in the U.S. state of Maryland, was opened in 2016 with a ceremony attended by AKP President Erdoğan. In addition to religious activities, the center also operates with a supermarket, restaurant, gift shop, and sports facilities. Furthermore, hall rental services are also offered for weddings, engagements, and various special events.

News Source: 12punto