This Handout photograph taken and released by the Turkish Ministry of Youth and Sports Press Office shows officials visiting referee Halil Umut Meler This Handout photograph taken and released by the Turkish Ministry of Youth and Sports Press Office shows officials visiting referee Halil Umut Meler (bottom) who was hospitalised after being punched by the President of MKE Ankaragucu Football Club, Faruk Koca, in Ankara. Photo: Handout via AFP
FIFA chief Gianni Infantino on Tuesday called the attack on a Turkish football referee by the president of top-flight club Ankaragucu "totally unacceptable".
The Turkish football federation suspended all leagues indefinitely after referee Halil Umut Meler was punched by Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca after Monday's 1-1 draw with Caykur Rizespor.
"There is absolutely no place for violence in football, on or off the field," Infantino said in a statement on social media.
"Events following the Turkish Super Lig match between MKE Ankaragucu and Caykur Rizespor are totally unacceptable and have no place in our sport or society."
"Without match officials there is no football," Infantino continued.
"Referees, players, fans and staff have to be safe and secure to enjoy the game, and I call on the relevant authorities to ensure that this is strictly implemented and respected at all levels."
Images of Monday night's incident showed Koca rushing onto the pitch with a group of men and throwing a punch at Meler after he had blown the final whistle.
A court has placed Koca and two others in pre-trial detention for "injuring and threatening a public official".
AFP
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