Turkey Suspends 149 Referees Over Betting Allegations
The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has suspended 149 referees for allegedly betting on football matches. In a statement on Friday, the TFF announced that its disciplinary committee has issued suspensions ranging from eight to twelve months. Investigations are still ongoing for three other officials. TFF President Ibrahim Haciosmanoglu emphasized the seriousness of the issue, stating, "Refereeing is a profession of honour. Anyone who tarnishes that honour...will never again be involved in Turkish football." Among those suspended are 22 officials who work in the country's top league. Reports indicate that some of the referees placed an extremely high number of bets, with one individual allegedly making over 18,000 wagers. It has not been specified if any of the referees are suspected of betting on matches they were directly involved in officiating. A separate criminal investigation has also been launched by the […]