UEFA Launches Probe into Merih Demiral’s Controversial Celebration at Euro 2024
Turkey defender Merih Demiral is under investigation by UEFA for his alleged inappropriate behavior during Tuesday’s 2-1 win over Austria at Euro 2024.
Demiral, who scored both goals to secure a quarterfinal spot, sparked controversy with his celebration after the second goal.
He appeared to make a hand sign associated with the Turkish ultra-nationalist group Ulku Ocaklari, also known as the Gray Wolves.
UEFA has launched an investigation into the incident, which has sparked widespread debate and concern.
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UEFA confirmed on Wednesday that it had appointed an inspector to investigate Demiral.
It did not outline when the case might conclude.
Demiral said after the game:
“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.”
Demiral was previously one of 16 Turkey players reprimanded in 2019 for making military-style salutes at games at a time when the country was conducting a military offensive in Syria.
The Gray Wolves group has been banned in France, while Austria has banned the use of the Gray Wolf salute, which is widely used by nationalists in Turkey.
Turkey’s next game is against the Netherlands in Berlin on Saturday.
