Merih Demiral under investigation for ‘inappropriate behaviour’, could face ban after guiding Turkey to Euro 2024 quarter-finals
UEFA have launched an investigation into an apparent case of inappropriate behaviour by Turkey defender Merih Demiral at Euro 2024. The 26-year-old's celebration has come into question after he scored twice to hand his side a 2-1 win over Austria.
The Al-Ahli star raised his index and pinky fingers on each hand, a gesture linked with a far-right extremist group called Grey Wolves in Turkey. The act is banned in Austria and France due to its association with alleged paramilitary activity.
Following the game, a statement released by UEFA read:
"Match: 2024 UEFA EURO Round of 16 match between Austria and Türkiye played on 2 July 2024 in Leipzig, Germany. In relation to the 2024 UEFA European Championship Round of 16 match between Austria and Türkiye played on 2 July 2024 in Leipzig, Germany, an investigation has been opened in accordance with Article 31(4) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations in relation to the alleged inappropriate behaviour of the Turkish Football Federation player, Merih Demiral."
He is in line to miss the Crescent Stars' next game if he is found in violation of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations.
Demiral was Turkey's hero on a memorable night in the nation's history as they made it to the quarterfinals of Euro 2024. It marks just the second time they have reached the last eight, the first instance coming back in 2008 where they made the semis.
The central defender scored once in both halves from corners, handing his side a 2-0 lead before Michael Gregoritsch pulled one back for Austria. Turkey held on in the dying stages of the game to complete a famous victory. They will face the Netherlands who breezed past Romania in the Round of 16 in the next round.
Merih Demiral opens up on controversial celebration as Turkey advance to quarterfinals of Euro 2024
Turkey centre-back Merih Demiral suggested that his celebration was to pay homage to his Turkish identity. Speaking after the game, the Al-Ahli defender said he was proud to represent his nation.
He said (via The Sun):
"I had a specific celebration in mind, something connected to my Turkish identity. I am incredibly proud to be Turkish, and I felt that pride deeply after scoring.
"I wanted to express that, and I’m very happy I did. Our fans are proud of us. I saw them doing the gesture in the stands, and it made me want to do it even more. I am very happy."
The celebration, associated with the far-right extremist group Grey Wolves in Turkey, has raised eyebrows and prompted an investigation into the incident by UEFA.
Demiral stands to miss Turkey's quarter-final as well as a fine of up to €4000. The incident comes after a similar one where England's Jude Bellingham reportedly made a crotch-grabbing gesture in the side's win over Slovakia in the Round of 16.