FIFA’s Infantino demands action after Trabzonspor fans attack Fenerbahce players in Turkey

Gianni Infantino, the FIFA president, expressed his concern on Monday about the actions of Trabzonspor fans who assaulted Fenerbahce players after Fenerbahce’s 3-2 victory in a Turkish Super Lig match on Sunday, March 17. Disturbing scenes emerged online showing Trabzonspor supporters invading the pitch and confronting Fenerbahce players, prompting a call for intervention.

Infantino condemned the violence that erupted during the match, stating such behavior is wholly unacceptable in both football and society. He urged the responsible authorities to take stringent measures against those who violated security protocols at the game.

“The unacceptable violence after the match between Trabzonspor and Fenerbahce contradicts the spirit of our sport and societal norms,” Infantino remarked. He emphasized the importance of ensuring player safety to maintain football’s positive impact globally. He also demanded accountability for those involved in the incidents in Trabzon.

In response to the unrest, the Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported that the police had detained several individuals. Fenerbahce players, under tight security, departed from the city by private plane on the same night.

The incident adds to a series of controversies plaguing the Turkish Super Lig this season, including an attack on a referee by a club president and disputes over officiating decisions. Trabzonspor’s coach, Abdullah Avci, commented on the chaotic state of Turkish football, highlighting the ongoing tension and the sport’s departure from its unifying and peaceful essence.

Both Avci and Fenerbahce’s manager, Ismail Kartal, called for a reduction in tensions, emphasizing the need for tolerance, celebration rights, and common sense in overcoming the current atmosphere of conflict within Turkish football.