The Turkish Super Cup final between Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, initially set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Friday, has been postponed.
According to the BBC, this was due to what both clubs have referred to as “some problems” in the event’s preparation.
Reports suggest that a central issue revolved around the desire of both teams to wear T-shirts featuring Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, during the pre-match warm-up.
According to Saudi state TV, the conflict arose from the teams’ failure to comply with match regulations.
Organizers released a statement expressing their anticipation for a timely match held in accordance with international soccer regulations, emphasizing the need to present the sport without any non-related slogans, particularly following discussions with the Turkish federation in prior preparatory meetings for the event.
“Despite this agreement, it was unfortunate that the two teams did not adhere to what had been agreed upon, which led to the match not being held.”
The Turkish football scene has been embroiled in a series of controversies this month, with the cancellation of the Super Cup final only adding to the turmoil.
The president of the top-tier club Ankaragucu, Faruk Koca, made headlines after being arrested on December 12 for assaulting a referee at the conclusion of a match.
As a result, the Turkish Football Federation handed Koca a permanent ban, leading to his subsequent resignation, and also imposed sanctions on Ankaragucu.
This incident led to a temporary suspension of the Turkish league.
Upon its resumption, another uproar occurred when Istanbulspor protested a refereeing decision during a Super Lig match against Trabzonspor by walking off the pitch.
Consequently, the game was ultimately abandoned amidst the escalating tensions surrounding the referee’s call.
