Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca has been handed a lifetime ban from football following his violent assault on referee Halil Umut Meler. The incident occurred after Ankaragucu’s draw with Rizespor in the Turkish Super Lig, culminating in a last-minute 1-1 stalemate. Koca’s fury erupted at the final whistle as he confronted Meler, delivering a vicious sucker punch, causing the referee to collapse. The assault continued with an unidentified assailant kicking Meler while he was down.
In response, Turkey’s Minister of Justice issued a warrant for Koca’s arrest, and the Turkish Football Federation imposed a lifetime ban. Koca, who resigned from his role as Ankaragucu chief, offered no excuses for his actions but expressed hope that the incident would prompt discussions on addressing structural issues in Turkish football. Initially denying the severity of the attack, Koca later admitted to slapping Meler, claiming unawareness of the subsequent events.
Meler, who suffered a fractured cheek, revealed the brutality of the assault, including threats against him and fellow referees. The incident underscores the need for addressing violence in football and raises concerns about the broader challenges within Turkish football.
Absolutely crazy scenes between Ankaragucu’s 1-1 draw with Rizespor.
Halil Umut Meler, stood with his assistants at the final whistle, Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca knocks him out!
Ironically Faruk Koca won the Turkish Super Lig’ fairplay award in 2022 💀#AGvÇRS 🇹🇷 pic.twitter.com/GFb5HW2pOd
— Ali (@RoyMustang786) December 11, 2023
Ankaragücü performance and stats
Ankaragücü is currently 11th in the Super Lig with 18 points.
In the last 15 games, it has won 4 times, drawn 6 times, and lost 5 times. In its last match, Ankaragücü drawn 1-1 against Rizespor.
It has a even goal difference after scoring 21 goals and conceding 21.
Embed from Getty Images
