Turkish sports minister condemns UEFA's "unjust" decision to suspend Merih Demiral

On Friday, the Turkish Sports Minister Osman Askin Bak condemned UEFA's decision to suspend Turkish defender Merih Demiral for two matches. The suspension was handed down following a controversial celebration by Demiral during the Euro 2024 Round of 16 match against Austria.

In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Minister Bak expressed strong disapproval of UEFA's ruling. "We condemn the unjust and biased decision of UEFA, which has no legal basis and we consider purely political," he wrote.

The incident that led to Demiral's suspension occurred after Turkey's victory over Austria. Demiral's celebration was deemed inappropriate by UEFA, leading to the disciplinary action. Details of the celebration were not disclosed by UEFA, but the governing body cited the need to maintain sportsmanship and respect on the field.

Minister Bak's response highlights the Turkish government's dissatisfaction with UEFA's decision, suggesting that the ruling was influenced by factors beyond the sporting context. "This decision not only lacks a legal foundation but also reflects a partial stance against our player and our country," he stated.

Demiral's suspension will impact Turkey's strategy in the upcoming quarterfinals of Euro 2024. The defender has been a crucial part of the team's defense, and his absence will be felt on the field. Turkey will need to adjust their lineup and tactics to compensate for this loss.

The suspension has sparked debate among fans and analysts, with opinions divided on the fairness of UEFA's decision. Some argue that the governing body is right to enforce standards of conduct, while others believe the punishment is excessive and politically motivated.

As Euro 2024 progresses, the controversy surrounding Demiral's suspension underscores the ongoing tensions between sports governance bodies and national interests. 

The Turkish team's performance in the upcoming matches will be closely watched, both for their on-field prowess and how they handle the off-field challenges.