Death threats to Turkish referee from Besiktas fans prompt state investigation

The intense Super Lig derby between Galatasaray and Besiktas on Oct. 28, 2024, kept fans on edge at RAMS Park.

  • Galatasaray secured a 2-1 victory, thanks to goals from Sanchez and Victor Osimhen, while Ernest Muci scored for Besiktas
  • The match featured several contentious moments that would become the focal point of post-game reactions

The controversial decisions by referee Arda Kardesler not only drew widespread criticism but also led to death threats, prompting him to seek legal action.

The referee Arda Kardesler shows a yellow card during the Turkish Super Lig week 10 football match between Galatasaray and Besiktas at RAMS Park in Istanbul, Turkiye, on Oct. 28, 2024. (AA Photo)

Arda Kardesler’s decisions ignite widespread controversy during match

Referee Arda Kardesler’s officiating sparked significant criticism throughout the game. Disputed calls, such as the non-awarding of a penalty to Mauro Emanuel Icardi Rivero and multiple incidents that could have warranted red cards for Galatasaray players, fueled discontent.

Supporters and club officials from both sides voiced their dissatisfaction, turning the match into a hot topic on social media and igniting debates over the referee’s conduct.

Death threats to Turkish referee from Besiktas fans prompt state investigation
Head coach of Besiktas Giovanni van Bronckhorst follows the Turkish Super Lig week 10 football match between Galatasaray and Besiktas at RAMS Park in Istanbul, Türkiye, on Oct. 28, 2024. (AA Photo)

Besiktas reacts strongly to referee Arda Kardesler’s decisions after match

Besiktas issued a strong response to Kardesler’s performance, accusing him of biased officiating and referring to an “organized network of wrongdoing.” The club demanded that “Kardesler must hang up his whistle immediately.”

Vice President Huseyin Yucel disclosed that he, along with other club officials, met with TFF President Ibrahim Haciosmanoglu in Ankara to raise their concerns. Yucel emphasized that the club would pursue the issue relentlessly, highlighting their trust in the federation to act accordingly.

Death threats to Turkish referee from Besiktas fans prompt state investigation
The referee Arda Kardesler shows a yellow card during the Turkish Super Lig week 10 football match between Galatasaray and Besiktas at RAMS Park in Istanbul, Türkiye, on Oct. 28, 2024. (AA Photo)

Death threats lead Arda Kardesler to file criminal complaint

As the controversy grew, Kardesler received death threats following the match, prompting him to take immediate action. According to a report by sports daily Fanatik’s reporter Umut EkenKardesler has taken legal action.

Arda Kardesler filed a criminal complaint and submitted evidence through his lawyer, including threatening messages and phone records, to the prosecutor’s office.

Authorities have initiated an investigation in response to Kardesler’s complaint to address the death threats and ensure his safety.

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