Turkey Defender Merih Demiral Under Investigation by UEFA for Ultra-Nationalist Salute.
Turkey defender Merih Demiral is facing an investigation by UEFA after appearing to make an ultra-nationalist salute during his country’s 2-1 victory against Austria. The 26-year-old, who plays for Al-Ahli, scored twice to secure Turkey’s place in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals, where they will face the Netherlands.
Demiral celebrated his second goal with a ‘wolf salute’, a gesture linked to the far-right extremist group Grey Wolves, which is associated with Turkey’s ruling coalition party, the National Movement Party. The gesture is banned in Austria and France.
“I had a goal celebration in mind, which I did,” said Demiral. “I am very proud because I am a Turk, therefore after the goal I felt it deeply and I wanted to do it, and I am very happy about doing it.” He also posted a photo of the celebration on his social media account with the caption: “How happy is the one who says I am a Turk!”
UEFA’s investigation, opened in accordance with Article 31(4), pertains to the “alleged inappropriate behaviour” of Demiral. If found guilty, he could face a fine or suspension, impacting Turkey’s preparations for their quarter-final match against the Netherlands, scheduled for Saturday at 8pm BST.
In a related incident, England midfielder Jude Bellingham is also under investigation for a gesture he made during the last-16 win against Slovakia. Bellingham was seen making a crotch-grabbing gesture towards the Slovakian bench after scoring an overhead kick in stoppage time.
These investigations highlight UEFA’s commitment to addressing inappropriate behaviour and maintaining sportsmanship standards during the tournament.