Galatasaray Sues Federation Over Mourinho's Reduced Ban, Mourinho Retaliates

Galatasaray has announced its intention to take legal action against the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) and its Arbitration Board after the latter reduced the penalty imposed on José Mourinho, the current Fenerbahçe coach, for comments made following the derby between the two teams. The conflict arose after a 0-0 draw in the match held last Monday, when Mourinho remarked in a post-match press conference that "Galatasaray players were jumping like monkeys" following a referee's decision.

This comment led the Turkish Federation to sanction the Portuguese coach with a four-match suspension and a €42,500 fine. However, following an appeal by Fenerbahçe, the TFF's Arbitration Board decided to reduce the ban to two matches and the fine to €14,700. This decision has not been well received by Galatasaray, which believes the reduction unfairly favours Mourinho and sets a dangerous precedent for Turkish football.

Galatasaray's statement expresses outrage at what it sees as unconditional support for the Portuguese's disrespectful behaviour, which the club describes as contempt for Turkish football, referees, and humanity in general. In this regard, Galatasaray has announced its intention to sue TFF President Ibrahim Haciosmanoglu and all members of the Arbitration Board for what it considers "misuse of office." Additionally, the club has expressed its intention to file a formal complaint with FIFA and UEFA.

On the other hand, Mourinho has not remained silent in the face of these attacks. The Portuguese coach has filed a lawsuit against Galatasaray for moral damages, seeking €50,000 in compensation for what he considers unjust attacks on his personal rights. Fenerbahçe has supported this lawsuit and announced it will take the case to court, ensuring that the club's lawyers will seek financial compensation for the damages suffered by Mourinho due to Galatasaray's accusations of racism.

The incident has also highlighted the tensions between Turkey's two largest clubs, as well as disputes over impartiality in match officiating. The encounter between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe was the first in the Turkish Super League to be officiated by a foreign referee, Slovenian Slavko Vincic, due to Fenerbahçe's constant complaints about perceived bias in the Turkish refereeing body in favour of Galatasaray.