Has Turkiye Really Banned 102 Footballers Over a Major Betting Scandal?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic escalation of the betting scandal in Turkiye, 102 professional footballers have received temporary bans. This bold move by the TFF is part of a wider investigation that has already led to numerous arrests and suspensions, raising questions about integrity in sports. What does this mean for the future of football in Turkiye?
Key Takeaways
- 102 players banned due to illegal betting investigation.
- The TFF is taking strict actions against players involved.
- Matches in lower leagues postponed for two weeks.
- Urged discussions with FIFA for a transfer window.
- Integrity in football is under serious scrutiny.
Ankara (Turkiye), Nov 14 (NationPress) – In a significant development, Turkiye's football governing bodies have imposed temporary bans on 102 professional players due to an expanding inquiry into illicit betting practices within the nation. The Turkish Football Federation's Professional Football Disciplinary Board (TFF) announced on Thursday that 25 players from the Super Lig and 77 players from the second-tier First League have received suspensions ranging from 45 days to 12 months. This investigation scrutinized allegations against 1,024 footballers, leading to the sanctions imposed on 102 of them.
Notable among the banned is Eren Elmali, a defender for Galatasaray and the Turkish national team, who has been suspended for 45 days and removed from the national squad, according to reports from Xinhua. Earlier this week, Elmali acknowledged via Instagram that he placed a bet on a football match nearly five years ago, clarifying that it did not involve his own team. He joined Galatasaray earlier this year.
His teammate, Metehan Baltaci, who plays for Türkiye's Under-21 squad, has received a nine-month suspension, while Konyaspor’s Alassane Ndao has been hit with the longest ban of 12 months.
The TFF emphasized that players provisionally referred to the disciplinary board are barred from participating in matches during the investigation. Due to the investigation's extensive nature, the TFF has announced a two-week postponement of matches in the Second and Third Leagues, although Super Lig and First League fixtures will proceed as planned. The federation also indicated it is in urgent discussions with FIFA to grant teams affected by the bans a 15-day transfer window to bolster their rosters.
Previously, eight individuals were arrested in Turkiye, and over 1,000 players have been suspended amid a broad investigation into alleged betting on football matches that has shaken the country’s football federation. On Monday, Turkish authorities formally arrested Eyupspor Chairman Murat Ozkaya, along with seven others, while the TFF suspended 1,024 players pending disciplinary actions. Among those suspended are 27 players from the Super Lig, including Galatasaray's Eren Elmali, who also plays for the Turkish national team.
Point of View
I am compelled to emphasize the importance of integrity in sports. This wide-ranging investigation into illegal betting activities illustrates the serious ramifications of such actions on the reputation of players and the sport itself. The Turkish Football Federation's decisive action reflects a commitment to uphold the values of fair play and transparency.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were 102 footballers banned in Turkiye?
The bans were imposed as part of an investigation into illegal betting activities involving these players.
What are the consequences for the banned players?
Players face temporary suspensions ranging from 45 days to 12 months, depending on their individual cases.
Will the affected leagues continue to play?
Super Lig and First League matches will proceed as scheduled, while matches in the Second and Third Leagues have been postponed for two weeks.
What is the TFF's response to the scandal?
The TFF has emphasized its commitment to integrity and has initiated urgent talks with FIFA regarding a transfer window for affected teams.
Who are some of the notable players affected?
Notable players include Eren Elmali from Galatasaray, who received a 45-day ban and was removed from the national team.
