German Interior Minister condemns Turkish defender for using Euro 2024 as ‘platform for racism’ as UEFA opens investigation
Demiral scored twice in Turkey’s 2-1 round of 16 victory and celebrated by making a gesture known as the “wolf salute,” which is associated with the Turkish right-wing extremist group “Grey Wolves.”
“The symbols of Turkish right-wing extremists have no place in our stadiums,” said Germany’s German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Wednesday, adding that the group is under surveillance in Germany.
“Using the European Football Championship as a platform for racism is completely unacceptable. We expect UEFA to investigate the case and consider sanctions.”
Following the win, Demiral posted a picture of himself making the gesture on X.
“Happy is one who calls themselves a Turk,” the defender captioned the post.
“I had a certain specific celebration in mind. That’s what I did. It has to do with the Turkish identity because I’m very proud to be a Turk. And I felt that to the fullest after the second goal, so I ended up doing that gesture,” Demiral told reporters after the game. “I’m very happy that I did that.”
UEFA announced in a statement on Wednesday that it is investigating Demiral’s “alleged inappropriate behavior.”
“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 behavior of the Turkish Football Federation player, Merih Demiral,” UEFA said in its statement.
CNN has reached out to the Turkish Football Federation for comment.
Turkey’s next game is against the Netherlands in the quarterfinals of Euro 2024 in Berlin on Saturday.
CNN’s Chris Stern and Gul Tuysuz contributed to reporting
After the thrilling victory, Demiral shared a photo on X, celebrating with the "wolf salute," a gesture linked to the Turkish right-wing group "Grey Wolves." Despite his victory celebration, Demiral expressed pride in his Turkish identity, stating, "I'm very proud to be a Turk."
