Following a heated 0-0 draw between Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, the latter's manager Jose Mourinho has been accused by Galatasaray of making racist statements, with the club announcing plans to initiate legal action and submit formal complaints to governing bodies.
Galatasaray Launches Legal Action Against Mourinho Over Alleged Racist Comments
Galatasaray Launches Legal Action Against Mourinho Over Alleged Racist Comments
Fenerbahce's manager Jose Mourinho faces accusations and potential criminal proceedings from rivals Galatasaray after controversial remarks following a recent derby.
Galatasaray has declared its intention to pursue legal action against Fenerbahce's manager, Jose Mourinho, after the veteran coach allegedly made "racist statements" in the aftermath of the Istanbul derby that ended in a goalless draw. While the exact comments prompting this accusation remain ambiguous, Mourinho sparked controversy during his post-match news conference by stating that the Fenerbahce bench was "jumping like monkeys."
Adding fuel to the fire, Mourinho reiterated his earlier criticisms of Turkish referees, asserting that utilizing a local official would have resulted in a "disaster." This match was directed by Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic after both teams requested a foreign official, reflecting mounting concerns over officiating standards in Turkish football.
In its official statement, Galatasaray condemned Mourinho's remarks as "derogatory" and escalated its claims, positioning them as not merely unethical but inhumane. The club has announced plans to initiate criminal proceedings against Mourinho, affirming that they would also lodge complaints with UEFA and FIFA regarding his conduct. Galatasaray expressed its expectation for Fenerbahce, which champions "exemplary moral values," to take a firm stance against Mourinho's alleged behavior.
Mourinho, who stepped into the role of Fenerbahce manager in the summer of 2023, has previously been suspended and fined for his critiques of Turkish officiating. He welcomed the foreign officiating arrangement before the match, claiming it essential for the match's credibility and image.
As the fallout continues, BBC Sport has reached out to Fenerbahce for a statement regarding Galatasaray's serious claims against their manager.
