ISTANBUL (AP) — More than 1,000 players have been suspended by the Turkish Football Federation. Spreading gambling scandalThis includes national defender Eren Elmalli, who became a regular in the Champions League with Galatasaray this season.
Elmali released a statement late Monday explaining his involvement in the incident after he was left out of Turkey’s squad ahead of World Cup qualifiers against Spain and Bulgaria.
Elmari, 25 years old Post to Instagram About five years ago, he said, he placed a bet on a game that didn’t involve his team. He joined Galatasaray this year.
Elmali’s Galatasaray teammate Metehan Baltaci is one of them. 1,024 players listed The Turkish federation, which has been referred to a disciplinary committee, announced on Monday.
The federation announced that while the third and fourth divisions would be closed for two weeks, matches in the Super League, led by defending champions Galatasaray, and the second division would continue.
Investigation into suspicions shakes Turkish soccer world Extensive betting by refereeand now players are participating in games that are banned by FIFA.
More than 150 referees are said to have bet on the match, including seven referees authorized to officiate top-level matches and 15 top-level assistants.
The chairman of top club Eyupspor and the former owner of Kasumpasa are being investigated for their alleged involvement.
“Our duty is to elevate Turkish football to its rightful status and cleanse it of all filth,” federation resident Ibrahim Haçuosmanoğlu said at a press conference two weeks ago.
Turkish soccer has experienced a resurgence in recent years.
The country is Co-hosting the 2032 Men’s European Championship Together with Italy, the national team reached the quarter-finals of Euro 2024, and Istanbul has been selected by UEFA to host multiple finals in European club competitions.
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