UEFA has reportedly suspended Turkish defender Merih Demiral for two matches following his controversial ‘Wolfsgruß’ gesture during Turkey’s 2-1 victory over Austria in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals. The gesture, associated with the far-right ‘Grey Wolves’ movement, is banned in several European countries and considered a political symbol by UEFA.If confirmed, this suspension would mean Demiral misses Turkey’s crucial quarterfinal match against the Netherlands and a potential semifinal. However, the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has strongly denied these reports, stating that no decision has been made and that Demiral will present his defense to UEFA. The TFF emphasized, ‘The news that ‘Merih Demiral was given a 2-match suspension by UEFA’ published in Bild newspaper is not true.’ The incident has sparked diplomatic tensions between Turkey and Germany. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser called for immediate action, stating, ‘Symbols of Turkish right-wing extremists have no place in our stadiums. Using the Euro as a platform for racism is unacceptable.’ In response, the Turkish Foreign Ministry summoned the German ambassador to Ankara, considering the German reaction ‘xenophobic’.Demiral, who scored both goals in Turkey’s victory, has defended his actions, stating he was celebrating his Turkish identity and felt proud after scoring. He explained that he saw fans in the stands making the same gesture and wanted to join in.The controversy occurs against the backdrop of UEFA’s strict stance on political symbols during the tournament. As the situation unfolds, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced his intention to attend the quarterfinal match between Turkey and the Netherlands in Berlin on July 7, 2024, potentially escalating the political dimension of the sporting event.
Key points
- UEFA reportedly suspended Merih Demiral for two matches due to his ‘Wolfsgruß’ gesture.
- The Turkish Football Federation denies the suspension, stating no decision has been made.
- The incident has caused diplomatic tensions between Turkey and Germany.
- Turkish President Erdogan plans to attend the quarterfinal match, potentially escalating the situation.
Contradictions👾While multiple sources report UEFA’s two-match suspension of Demiral, the Turkish Football Federation strongly denies this claim, creating uncertainty about the actual status of the disciplinary action.
