Turkish Authorities Detain Refereeing Chief and Six Others in Corruption Investigation

Turkish authorities detained Central Refereeing Committee chairman Ferhat Gündoğdu and six others in an investigation into alleged interference in referee rankings, match assignments, evaluations, appointments and examinations. The group includes current and former officials from the federation’s refereeing bodies and associations. Investigators are examining witness and complainant statements, expert findings, financial records and phone data, and conducted searches at homes, workplaces and offices. Justice Minister Akin Gurlek said the investigation is part of the government’s effort to address alleged irregularities and restore trust in Turkish football.
Reports said the suspects were accused of applying psychological pressure to subordinates and forging official documents, allegations that go beyond the suspected interference in referee procedures.
The operation took place across four provinces: Istanbul, Ankara, Elazığ and Manisa.
The investigation reportedly began on September 15 of the previous year, following a complaint from a victim.
The detainees reportedly include Active Referees Association President Ferdi Karadoruk, former MHK deputy chairman Ahmet Şahin, former MHK member Yunus Yıldırım, and MHK member Sebahattin Şahin.
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