Merih Demiral, the standout player from Turkey in the Round of 16 match against Austria, has been handed a two-match ban by UEFA. This decision follows his controversial goal celebration, which has been widely condemned for its association with the far-right nationalist organization, the Grey Wolves, during the match against Austria.

Demiral scored the second-fastest goal in the history of the EURO finals against Austria. However, his exuberant celebration has sparked significant backlash. The celebration, which involved raising his hands to the sky with his thumb and middle fingers joined, is seen as a gesture of support for the Grey Wolves.

The Grey Wolves are part of the controversial ruling coalition of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. This gesture has been banned in both Austria and France as it is considered a display of support for terrorism, although it is not banned in Germany. The Grey Wolves, a Turkish paramilitary group, have been accused of committing violence against Kurdish, Armenian, Greek, and Assyrian minorities.

Due to Demiral’s provocative celebration, the Turkish Ambassador to Germany was summoned to the German Foreign Ministry for a reprimand, as he also expressed support for the Al-Ahli Saudi FC defender’s actions.

Many German politicians, including Interior Minister Nancy Faeser and Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir (a German of Turkish descent), have condemned Demiral’s celebration. Human rights organizations and ethnic associations in Germany have called on UEFA to strictly prohibit such gestures.

Merih Demiral’s historic performance, where he scored twice, has now been overshadowed by this controversy. UEFA has launched an extensive investigation into the former Juventus center-back’s actions. As a result, Demiral is likely to face a two-match ban and a potential five-figure fine. This ban means he will miss the quarter-final match against the Netherlands in Berlin during EURO 2024.

In conclusion, Merih Demiral’s controversial celebration has not only led to a significant personal setback but has also stirred political and social repercussions. UEFA’s decision underscores the governing body’s stance against any form of controversial or politically charged gestures in football.