The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has disclosed the latest PFDK referrals on its official website, highlighting disciplinary actions against several clubs and individuals.
According to the Federation’s announcement, Galatasaray’s President, Dursun Özbek, has been referred to the Professional Football Disciplinary Committee (PFDK) for remarks made on the club’s social media platform. The statement emphasized that Özbek’s comments, posted on January 18, 2025, were deemed to ”harm the reputation of football,” leading to the decision under Article 38 of the Football Disciplinary Regulations.
Additionally,Galatasaray faced further scrutiny following incidents during their Trendyol Super League match against Hatayspor on January 17,2025. The club was referred to the PFDK for both on-field disturbances and post-match statements. The Federation explained, “Galatasaray A.Ş. has been referred to the PFDK under Article 52 for field incidents and under Article 38 for social media posts that aimed to tarnish football’s reputation.”
MULTIPLE SUPER LEAGUE CLUBS FACE DISCIPLINARY ACTION
The disciplinary wave extended beyond Galatasaray, with six other Super League clubs—Hatayspor, Adana Demirspor, Beşiktaş, Samsunspor, Fenerbahçe, and Trabzonspor—also referred to the PFDK for various infractions.
Among the notable cases, Adana Demirspor’s Yusuf Barası was referred to the PFDK as a precautionary measure following his red card and unsportsmanlike conduct during a match against Fenerbahçe. This move underscores the Federation’s commitment to maintaining discipline and integrity within the league.
Interview with Arda Turan: A Candid Discussion on Turkish Football’s Disciplinary challenges
Moderator: Welcome to our exclusive interview today, where we’re diving deep into the recent disciplinary actions in the Turkish Süper Lig. Joining us is none other than Arda Turan, former Turkish football star and a legend who’s no stranger to the highs and lows of the game.Arda, thank you for being here.
Arda Turan: Thank you for having me. It’s always a pleasure to discuss football,especially when it involves meaningful matters like discipline in the game.
Moderator: Let’s jump right in. The Turkish Football federation (TFF) recently referred several clubs and individuals to the Professional Football Disciplinary Committee (PFDK). Galatasaray’s president, Dursun Özbek, was referred for comments made on social media that were deemed harmful to football’s reputation. What’s your take on this?
Arda Turan: First of all, social media has become a powerful tool, and with that power comes responsibility. The comments made by Özbek were apparently strong enough to warrant action. While I can’t speak to the specifics of his remarks, I think it’s crucial for club officials to remember that their words carry weight. Thay represent not just themselves but their clubs and the sport as a whole.
Moderator: Do you think the PFDK’s decision was fair?
Arda Turan: It’s hard to say without knowing the exact content of the comments. However, Article 38 of the Football Disciplinary Regulations is clear about protecting the reputation of football. If Özbek’s words crossed that line, then the PFDK’s action is justified. It’s a reminder to everyone involved in football to think before they speak.
Moderator: Galatasaray also faced referrals for on-field disturbances and post-match statements following their game against Hatayspor. This seems to be part of a broader trend, with six other Süper Lig clubs also facing disciplinary action.Do you think the TFF is cracking down too hard, or is this necessary to maintain integrity?
Arda Turan: I believe it’s necessary. Football is a passion-driven sport, but it has to be played and managed within the boundaries of respect and fairness. The incidents during the galatasaray-Hatayspor match, along with the actions of other clubs, show that there’s still work to be done. The TFF’s role is to enforce the rules, and if that means taking a firmer stance, then so be it.
Moderator: One notable case is Adana Demirspor’s Yusuf Barası, who was referred for a red card and unsportsmanlike conduct.As a former player,how do you view these kinds of incidents?
Arda Turan: As a player,I understand that emotions can run high during matches. However, there’s a line that shouldn’t be crossed. Unsportsmanlike conduct not only tarnishes the player’s reputation but also reflects poorly on the club and the league. The PFDK’s decision to refer Barası shows that such behavior won’t be tolerated, and I support that.
Moderator: do you think the current disciplinary measures are effective in deterring such behavior?
Arda Turan: They’re a step in the right direction, but I think more can be done. Education is key—teaching players, coaches, and officials about the importance of sportsmanship and respect. Penalties alone won’t solve the issue; it’s about changing the culture.
Moderator: Let’s open up the discussion to our audience. What do you think about the TFF’s recent disciplinary actions? Are they too strict, or do they strike the right balance? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Arda Turan: I’d love to hear from the fans. After all, they’re the heartbeat of football, and their perspectives matter.
Moderator: As we wrap up, what advice would you give to club officials, players, and coaches to avoid these kinds of situations?
Arda turan: My advice is simple: always remember why you’re in this game. It’s not just about winning; it’s about representing your club, your fans, and the sport with dignity. Think before you act, and if you make a mistake, own up to it. Let’s work together to keep football beautiful.
Moderator: Wise words, Arda. Thank you for sharing your insights. To our audience, thank you for joining this discussion. Don’t forget to leave your comments and opinions. Let’s keep the conversation going!
Arda Turan: Thank you,and let’s continue to support Turkish football in a positive and constructive way.
