The betting scandal in Turkish football is apparently expanding. The broadcaster “Habertürk” reported, citing judicial circles, that clubs and players were also being investigated. As a result, 3,700 players are in the sights of the judiciary.
The Turkish Football Association TFF had previously announced that 152 referees were said to have actively placed bets, including seven top referees. Disciplinary proceedings were initiated and the Istanbul public prosecutor’s office also began investigations.
The top Turkish clubs reacted with shock. Galatasaray Istanbul, which employs former DFB captain Ilkay Gündogan and ex-Bayern star Leroy Sané, said the developments highlighted the extent of the crisis of trust and justice that Turkish football has long been in.
SüperLig: Istanbul’s top clubs agree
Fenerbahce Istanbul president Sadettin Saran said after his team’s game against Gaziantep on Monday evening that he believes the matter will be cleared up and a new page will be turned for football afterwards.
Besiktas Istanbul called for a transparent review. The investigations are valuable and a milestone for clean football.