PARIS, Dec 12, 2023 (BSS/AFP) - FIFA chief Gianni Infantino on Tuesday called

the attack on a Turkish football referee by the president of top-flight club
Ankaragucu "totally unacceptable".

The Turkish football federation suspended all leagues indefinitely after
referee Halil Umut Meler was punched by Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca after
Monday's 1-1 draw with Caykur Rizespor.

"There is absolutely no place for violence in football, on or off the field,"
Infantino said in a statement on social media.

"Events following the Turkish Super Lig match between MKE Ankaragucu and
Caykur Rizespor are totally unacceptable and have no place in our sport or
society."

"Without match officials there is no football," Infantino continued.

"Referees, players, fans and staff have to be safe and secure to enjoy the
game, and I call on the relevant authorities to ensure that this is strictly
implemented and respected at all levels."

Images of Monday night's incident showed Koca rushing onto the pitch with a
group of men and throwing a punch at Meler after he had blown the final
whistle.

A court has placed Koca and two others in pre-trial detention for "injuring
and threatening a public official".