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The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has handed suspensions to 149 referees and assistant referees following revelations that hundreds of match officials had betting accounts, some of whom were actively gambling on football matches.
Announced on Friday, the sanctions range from eight to 12 months and come after a major probe uncovered systemic breaches of betting regulations among officials working in Turkey’s professional leagues. The disciplinary board said the length of each ban was determined by the “severity of the act.” Investigations into three additional referees remain ongoing.
The TFF released the full list of those sanctioned on its official website but provided no further details about the pending cases.
TFF President İbrahim Hacıosmanoğlu said the investigation, supported by data from state institutions, found that out of 571 active referees, 371 had betting accounts, with 152 of them placing wagers.
“There is a moral crisis in Turkish football. There is no such thing as structure. The fundamental problem at the core of Turkish football is an ethical one,” Hacıosmanoğlu told CNN on Friday.
“Ask any referee, if there is even one who has not received his pay, I will resign as federation president. In fact, we improved their salaries last year, and again this year.”
According to the TFF chief, some officials were heavily involved in gambling activity, including one referee who placed 18,227 bets. Forty-two others reportedly wagered on over 1,000 matches each, while a small number were found to have bet only once.
“Recent investigations have revealed that some referees were involved in betting activities in a manner completely incompatible with the spirit of football. This is not merely a violation, it is an abuse that wounds consciences and poisons justice,” Hacıosmanoğlu said in a separate statement.
“The reputation of Turkish soccer is built on the sanctity of the effort on the field and the unwavering integrity of justice. Any act that betrays these values is not merely a violation of the rules, but a breach of trust.”
Betting by players, coaches, or match officials is strictly prohibited under both TFF disciplinary rules and the regulations of FIFA and UEFA.
The findings, first revealed earlier in the week, have sent shockwaves through Turkish football. Several major clubs have welcomed the investigation, describing it as a potential turning point for the sport.
Beşiktaş said the development “could mark a new beginning for clean football,” while Trabzonspor hailed it as “an historic opportunity to rebuild justice in Turkish football.”
Fenerbahçe president Sadettin Saran also weighed in, saying: “This is both shocking and deeply saddening for Turkish football. But the fact that it is coming to light is a hopeful development.”
According to reports from broadcaster Habertürk, judicial authorities have also begun examining the possible involvement of clubs and players, with as many as 3,700 players said to be under investigation.
Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Omar Ramadan, Pixabay / sulox32
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