Turkish football federation debate on foreign referees continues

The topic of foreign referees, requested by Besiktas for derby matches, was discussed during the recent Turkish Football Federation (TFF) board meeting this week, despite not being on the official agenda.

Following the appointment of Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic for the Galatasaray – Fenerbahce match on Feb. 24, the idea of using foreign referees for the remaining derby matches in the Turkish Super Lig this season continues to be a topic of discussion.

The upcoming derbies this season include:

• Besiktas vs. Galatasaray (Super Lig)
• Fenerbahce vs. Galatasaray (Türkiye Cup)
• Fenerbahce vs. Trabzonspor (Super Lig)
• Fenerbahce vs. Besiktas (Super Lig)
• Trabzonspor vs. Galatasaray (Super Lig)

Besiktas had previously requested the assignment of foreign referees for their upcoming derby matches against Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, urging the TFF to respond promptly to their request and potentially even refuse to play the match.

TFF on the issue

TFF President Ibrahim Haciosmanoglu stated, “We brought in a foreign referee only as a one-time exception,” but it was noted that some members of the board disagreed with this stance.

In the discussions, several board members expressed support for Besiktas’s request, arguing, “Besiktas’s demand is reasonable and justified. By appointing a foreign referee for the derby, we have already opened this door. Now, refusing their request would not be fair. We should consider assigning foreign referees for the remaining five derbies this season, as well as for the critical matches involving teams fighting to avoid relegation in the final weeks.”

While no final decision has been made regarding the matter, it was mentioned that the issue of foreign referees will be discussed again at the next meeting.