FIFA chief condemns 'shocking' violence after fans attack players in Turkey

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has called for immediate action after Trabzonspor fans attacked the players of Fenerbahce during “shocking” violence in Turkey.

Fenerbahce were celebrating their 3-2 victory in Trabzon when supporters invaded the pitch – forcing the players to defend themselves.

Twelve people were detained by police after fans threw objects and attempted to kick and punch the players following the final whistle.

One fan was pictured charging at the players with a corner flag.

Mr Infantino called for the troublemakers to be held “accountable” after Sunday’s events at the Senol Gunes stadium.

On social media, he posted: “The violence witnessed after the Turkish Super Lig match between Trabzonspor and Fenerbahce is absolutely unacceptable – on or off the field, it has no place in our society.

“All players have to be safe and secure to play the game which brings such joy to so many people all over the world.

“I call on the relevant authorities to ensure that this is respected at all levels and for the perpetrators of the shocking events in Trabzon to be held accountable for their actions.”

Turkey’s interior minister, Ali Yerlikaya, said an investigation had been launched, adding football violence was “not acceptable” – while the Turkish Football Federation promised those responsible would be punished.

Fenerbahce had been leading 2-0 at half-time before Trabzonspor fought back to 2-2 in the second half.

But Michy Batshuayi sealed the points for the visitors with a late winner, which keeps them in second place and just two points behind leaders Galatasaray – and 30 points ahead of Trabzonspor in third.

Fenerbahce’s players left Trabzon by private plane on Sunday evening amid high security measures.

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After Sunday’s game, Trabzonspor coach, Abdullah Avci, said: “We are going through a period that Turkish football is now completely fed by chaos, where tensions are constantly high, and where we cannot use the healing power of football.”

Fenerbahce manager, Ismail Kartal, said: “I don’t understand why this place is so tense. Don’t we have the right to celebrate? We need to overcome these things. We need to be tolerant towards each other and have common sense.”

There have been other violent incidents in Turkey’s top league this season.

In December, the president of another top-flight club, Ankaragucu, was arrested for punching a referee following a match, prompting the Turkish Football Federation to briefly suspend league games.