Turkey’s Demiral faces probe over celebration gesture

Turkey’s Euro 2024 last-16 matchwinner Merih Demiral is under investigation by UEFA for allegedly making a political gesture as he celebrated his country’s victory over Austria.

Demiral scored twice as Turkey beat Austria 2-1 in an entertaining encounter in Leipzig, both following corners from teenage star Arda Guler.

UEFA issued a statement on Wednesday morning confirming an ethics and disciplinary investigator had been appointed in accordance with Article 31 (4) of its disciplinary regulations to look into “alleged inappropriate behaviour”.

UEFA is understood to be investigating whether Demiral gave a so-called ‘wolf’s salute’, a gesture linked to the Turkish nationalist movement.

Demiral, who plays for Saudi club Al Ahli, opened the scoring in the first minute and added a second just before the hour mark.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser condemned the gesture.

“The symbols of Turkish right-wing extremists have no place in our stadiums,” Faeser said in a post on Twitter.

“Using the European Football Championship as a platform for racism is completely unacceptable. We expect UEFA to investigate the case and consider sanctions,” she added.

Michael Gregoritsch pulled one back for Austria and they almost forced extra-time but for a wonderful save from Turkey goalkeeper Mert Gunok.