Turkey’s defender, Merih Demiral has been handed a two-match ban by UEFA following his controversial goal celebration during the Euro 2024 Round of 16 match against Austria.
UEFA quickly opened an investigation under Article 31(4) for “alleged inappropriate behaviour.”
This suspension will see the defender miss Turkey’s quarter-final clash with the Netherlands and a potential semi-final against either England or Switzerland.
Demiral, who was instrumental in Turkey’s 2-1 victory by scoring both goals, celebrated with a ‘wolf’ salute.
It is a gesture linked to the Turkish right-wing extremist group ‘The Grey Wolves.’
The Grey Wolves are classified as a terrorist organization by the European Union and their symbol is banned in Austria, where the match took place.
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In his defense, Demiral stated that the celebration was a reflection of his pride in his Turkish identity and that it was pre-planned.
“I am very proud because I am a Turk,” Demiral said. “After the goal, I felt it deeply and wanted to do it.”
German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser condemned the celebration, stating, “The symbols of Turkey’s far-right extremists do not belong in our stadiums. The Euros should not be used to promote racism.”
Devlet Bahceli, the chairman of Turkey’s National Movement Party, claimed the salute was a message from the Turkish nation to the world and criticizing UEFA’s investigation as ill-intentioned.
As a result of the ban, Turkey will face the Netherlands without their star defender.
If Turkey advances, Demiral will also miss the semi-final match.
