149 Referees Suspended in Turkey Over Suspected Betting Scandal

Turkey.– November 4, 2025 – www.zonadeazar.com  The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has suspended 149 referees amid an investigation into alleged links with illegal betting networks that may have compromised match integrity across national competitions.

Overview

In an official statement, the TFF confirmed that 149 referees and assistants were provisionally suspended following an internal probe coordinated with Turkish judicial authorities. The decision aims to preserve transparency and restore public confidence in domestic football.

Details / Context

The investigation began after analysts detected irregular betting patterns in lower-division matches. Prosecutors in Ankara are tracking financial flows and connections with unlicensed platforms.
According to TFF sources, the suspensions are precautionary but could lead to permanent bans and criminal charges once the inquiry concludes.

Specific subtopics

  • Sports integrity: The case highlights the need for stronger monitoring systems aligned with FIFA and UEFA integrity protocols.
  • International cooperation: European integrity bodies are assisting in tracing suspicious betting activity.
  • Institutional response: The TFF reiterated its “zero-tolerance” policy toward corruption and pledged decisive action.
  • Reputational impact: The scandal has triggered alerts in neighbouring federations and among licensed operators.

Future outlook

Final judicial outcomes are expected by mid-2026. Meanwhile, the TFF will strengthen referee-selection procedures and expand ethics-training programmes, aiming to rebuild trust and set a regional benchmark in integrity management.

🔗 Edited: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com

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