Turkish FIFA referee resigns amid casino scandal fallout

Yasar Kemal Ugurlu, a FIFA-licensed referee with over two decades of experience, resigned after a casino-related controversy.

Reports claim that images of Ugurlu in a casino reached the Central Referees’ Committee (MHK), prompting an investigation. The scandal raised concerns about officiating standards in Türkiye’s football scene.

Referees’ Committee investigates casino photos, confirms authenticity

The controversy started when a photo allegedly showing Ugurlu at a casino surfaced and reached MHK.

• The committee ordered a technical analysis, which confirmed the image was real
• Afterwards, MHK held a meeting with Ugurlu and asked him to prove that he personally paid for his stay at the casino’s hotel

MHK officials told Ugurlu, “This is your private life, we do not interfere. However, prove that you stayed at the hotel with your own money, provide a receipt.” Despite the request, he did not submit any financial documentation.

• Authorities reviewed Ugurlu’s travel records but found no official entry showing he visited Northern Cyprus, where the casino was located
• This raised further questions in the football community.

Super Lig clubs contacted MHK to demand clarification on the issue.

Turkish referee Ugurlu gets demoted then resigns after 576 matches

Following the developments, MHK demoted Ugurlu from his position as a top-tier referee. On February 5, 2025, Ugurlu officially announced his resignation from officiating. His departure ended a refereeing career that started in 2002 and included 576 professional matches.

The incident sparked discussions about the responsibilities of referees and the expectations surrounding their professional conduct. While Ugurlu has not provided an in-depth public statement beyond his resignation, fans and clubs continue to follow the controversy closely.